mineral

Tumbled turquoise

Turquoise — hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue-green with brown matrix and a waxy-to-subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic structure, no prominent cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The rounded shape indicates polishing or tumbling.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in arid, oxidized copper deposits when phosphate-bearing groundwater alters aluminum-rich host rock. Most turquoise is geologically young, commonly formed during Cenozoic weathering.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, inlay, carvings, and ornamental objects; historically important in Native American, Persian, Egyptian, and Central Asian jewelry. Lower-grade material is often stabilized or dyed.

Geological facts

Blue color comes mainly from copper, while green tones reflect iron substitution; brown or black spiderwebbing is host-rock matrix. The small image cannot confirm whether this is natural, stabilized, or a turquoise imitation.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Iran, China, Chile, and Tibet. Identify it by its opaque blue-green color, relatively low hardness, waxy surface, and nonmetallic appearance; avoid assuming all blue-green polished stones are turquoise.