mineral

Tumbled or rough turquoise-like specimen

Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; possibly dyed/chrysocolla-bearing material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Bright blue-green, opaque, typically waxy to subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic structure, no prominent cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.8. The vivid color and irregular polished-looking surface are consistent with turquoise, though the photo alone cannot exclude dyed chrysocolla or another copp…

Identified August 19, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled or rough turquoise-like specimen 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: Tumbled or rough turquoise-like specimen
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; possibly dyed/chrysocolla-bearing material
Category: mineral
Identified: August 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small common or treated fragment; $25–$200+ for attractive natural turquoise, with exceptional provenance and quality commanding much more.

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

Forms as a secondary mineral in arid, oxidized copper deposits, commonly replacing aluminum- and phosphate-bearing rocks. Most deposits are Cenozoic to relatively young geologically, with notable material from Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Chile, and Mexico.

Uses & applications

Used as a cabochon, bead, inlay, and ornamental stone; historically important in jewelry and ceremonial objects. Lower-grade material is often stabilized, dyed, or reconstituted.

Geological facts

Natural turquoise commonly shows brown, gray, or black matrix veining and can develop a green hue from iron substitution or weathering. Copper-bearing chrysocolla may look similar but is generally softer and more vitreous.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque blue-green color, moderate hardness, low-to-moderate density, and waxy luster; avoid scratching valuable pieces and beware of dye concentrated in cracks. A gemological test or composition analysis is needed for certainty.