Mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue to apple green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal system: Triclinic (usually massive/cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: Perfect (rarely observed); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale)
Color: Sky blue to apple green
Luster: Waxy to subvitreous

Identified March 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

A secondary mineral formed by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing copper-bearing minerals in arid environments, typically found in veins or nodules within volcanic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and ornamental inlay. Historically used in talismans and architectural decoration.

Geological facts

Turquoise has been mined for over 3,000 years; the ancient Egyptians used it in burial masks of pharaohs. It is one of the few minerals that is a namesake for a color.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct robin's-egg blue to greenish hue, waxy luster, and association with host rocks like rhyolite or limonite. Found commonly in the Southwestern USA, Iran, and China.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral