mineral

Polished turquoise cabochon jewelry (likely composite or stabilized turquoise)

Turquoise, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green opaque cabochons with mottled brown/black matrix, waxy to subvitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, Mohs hardness about 5–6, and specific gravity around 2.6–2.9. The central oval appears mounted in silver-colored metal; adjacent pieces may include other gemstones.

Identified August 21, 2026More mineral →

Explore Polished turquoise cabochon jewelry (likely composite or stabilized turquoise) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Polished turquoise cabochon jewelry (likely composite or stabilized turquoise)
Scientific name: Turquoise, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Category: mineral
Identified: August 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $20–$150 for common mounted turquoise jewelry; $200–$2,000+ for verified natural, high-grade turquoise with desirable provenance and fine silverwork.

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

Formation & geological history

Turquoise forms as a secondary phosphate mineral in arid, copper-rich, aluminum-bearing rocks, commonly replacing host rock in shallow veins and cavities. Deposits are generally geologically young relative to their host rocks, often associated with weathering and groundwater circulation.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in cabochon jewelry, carvings, beads, and collectibles; lower-grade material is often stabilized with resin or reconstructed from fragments. Quality depends on color, matrix pattern, natural status, origin, and workmanship.

Geological facts

Persian, American Southwestern, Egyptian, and Chinese turquoise are historically important. Bright, even sky-blue color is generally more valuable than heavily matrixed or green material, although attractive matrix can be desirable.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque blue-green color, relatively low hardness, and waxy surface; beware dyed howlite, plastic, and glass imitations. Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Iran, China, and Mexico.