mineral

Tumbled turquoise-like stone

Likely turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled turquoise-like stone
Scientific name: Likely turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Category: mineral
Identified: August 8, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Common tumbled or stabilized pieces: $2–$20; attractive natural turquoise with distinctive matrix: roughly $20–$200+, depending on origin and quality.

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 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.