mineral
Tumbled turquoise-like stone
Likely turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque blue-green, matte to waxy luster, fine-grained and rounded from tumbling; Mohs hardness 5–6, generally no visible cleavage, specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The image alone cannot distinguish natural turquoise from dyed howlite, magnesite, or synthetic material.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Tumbled turquoise-like stone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Opaque blue-green, matte to waxy luster, fine-grained and rounded from tumbling; Mohs hardness 5–6, generally no visible cleavage, specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The image alone cannot distinguish natural turquoise from dyed howlite, magnesite, or synthetic material.
Formation & geological history
Turquoise forms as a secondary mineral in arid, copper-rich, phosphate-bearing rocks, commonly replacing host rock in fractures and cavities. Deposits are generally geologically young relative to their host rocks, often formed during weathering and groundwater activity.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; lower-grade material is commonly stabilized with resin. Construction use is negligible.
Geological facts
Natural turquoise often shows brown, gray, or black host-rock matrix and can vary from sky blue to green. Color may darken with oils, cosmetics, and prolonged handling.
Field identification & locations
Check for natural matrix, uniformity, density, and a waxy surface; a hot-needle test can damage specimens and is not recommended. Major sources include Iran, Arizona, Nevada, China, Chile, and Mexico.
