mineral

Turquoise

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

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue to blue-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal system: Triclinic (rarely macro-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

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

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue to blue-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal system: Triclinic (rarely macro-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals. It is a secondary mineral usually found in arid climates within volcanic rocks or phosphorus-rich sedimentary rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons, inlay) and ornamental objects. Highly valued as a gemstone and collector's item in various cultures.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in human history; it was mined by the Ancient Egyptians as early as 3000 BCE. Its name comes from the French 'turquois' meaning 'Turkish', as the stone first reached Europe via Turkish trade routes.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique robin's egg blue or greenish-blue color and waxy luster. In the field, look for 'matrix' (veins of host rock like limonite or sandstone). Common locations include Iran, Southwestern USA, China, and Mexico.

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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