mineral

Dyed or treated turquoise-like tumbled stone

Likely turquoise (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O), though blue-green magnesite or howlite imitation is possible

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue-green body with dark brown/black matrix and waxy-to-glassy polish; turquoise hardness is Mohs 5–6, typically cryptocrystalline and non-cleavable, with specific gravity about 2.6–2.8.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Dyed or treated turquoise-like tumbled stone
Scientific name: Likely turquoise (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O), though blue-green magnesite or howlite imitation is possible
Category: mineral
Identified: August 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for common treated tumbled stones; $20–$100+ for attractive natural turquoise, depending on origin, matrix, and quality.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Opaque blue-green body with dark brown/black matrix and waxy-to-glassy polish; turquoise hardness is Mohs 5–6, typically cryptocrystalline and non-cleavable, with specific gravity about 2.6–2.8.

Formation & geological history

Natural turquoise forms as a secondary copper-aluminum phosphate in arid, oxidized zones of copper deposits, commonly in fractures and breccias; deposits are generally geologically young relative to their host rocks. The specimen is tumbled and may be stabilized, dyed, or reconstituted.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and collectibles; lower-grade material is often stabilized with resin for durability. It has minor ornamental, not structural, use.

Geological facts

Dark matrix can be limonite, iron oxides, or host rock; uniform vivid color and unusually low price may indicate treatment or imitation. Turquoise is among the oldest known ornamental stones.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, Iran, China, Chile, and Mexico. Check for natural irregular matrix, moderate hardness, and copper-bearing blue color; avoid destructive tests on polished pieces.