mineral
Purple Turquoise (Composite Mojave Turquoise)
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate composite)
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale (for original turquoise/magnesite matrix). Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Color: Vibrant purple, cyan, white, and bronze/gold metallic veining. Crystal system: Triclinic (microcrystalline).
- Luster
- Waxy to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale (for original turquoise/magnesite matrix). Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Color: Vibrant purple, cyan, white, and bronze/gold metallic veining. Crystal system: Triclinic (microcrystalline).
Formation & geological history
Created using natural compressed minerals (such as natural turquoise, magnesite, or spiny oyster shell) combined with metallic bronze/copper matrix binders and permanent color enhancements in a laboratory process.
Uses & applications
Popular in fashion jewelry, cabs, pendants, Southwestern jewelry, and artisan wire-wrapping.
Geological facts
Mojave turquoise is a famous trade term for these reconstituted stones, developed by the Arizona Kingman Turquoise Mine to utilize smaller natural gemstone fragments into bold, artistic cabochons.
Field identification & locations
Look for distinct mosaic-like patchwork segments bonded with metallic copper or bronze veins. Commonly mounted in sterling silver settings.
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