mineral

Tumbled or rough turquoise-like specimen

Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale blue-green, dull to waxy luster, opaque and irregularly massive; Mohs hardness 5–6, with no obvious cleavage and specific gravity about 2.6–2.8. The surface appears rough and chalky, consistent with low-grade turquoise or a similar copper-bearing mineral.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled or rough turquoise-like specimen
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; identification is uncertain from the image
Category: mineral
Identified: August 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small rough low-grade piece; fine natural turquoise can exceed $50–$500, but this specimen’s appearance suggests the lower range.

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 when acidic, copper-rich groundwater alters aluminum- and phosphorus-bearing rocks in arid climates, commonly as vein fillings or nodules. Deposits are generally associated with relatively young weathering zones rather than a single geological age.

Uses & applications

Used as a cabochon gemstone, ornamental material, and collector specimen; lower-grade material may be stabilized or dyed for jewelry. It has little construction value.

Geological facts

Natural turquoise commonly ranges from sky blue to green and may contain brown or black limonite matrix. Similar-looking chrysocolla, variscite, dyed magnesite, and plastic imitations are common.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, Mexico, China, and Chile. Confirm with hardness, density, copper reaction, and professional testing; avoid destructive tests on potentially valuable material.