gemstone

Turquoise beads

Turquoise, a hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; some beads may be dyed or stabilized howlite or magnesite.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque vivid blue to blue-green, typically waxy to subvitreous and Mohs 5–6; triclinic, with no prominent cleavage. The beads’ uniform color and visible matrix are not enough to confirm natural turquoise or treatment from the image alone.

Identified October 15, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Turquoise beads
Scientific name: Turquoise, a hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; some beads may be dyed or stabilized howlite or magnesite.
Category: gemstone
Identified: October 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$50 for a fashion strand with common, stabilized, or imitation beads; verified high-grade natural turquoise jewelry can be worth substantially 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

Turquoise forms as a secondary mineral in arid-zone oxidation of copper deposits, often replacing host rock; deposits range in age and occur in Iran, the southwestern United States, China, and elsewhere.

Uses & applications

Cut and polished for jewelry and ornament; lower-grade material is used for beads, inlay, and craftwork.

Geological facts

Its color comes chiefly from copper, while iron can shift it toward green. Stabilization with resin is common in commercial turquoise jewelry.

Field identification & locations

The image shows polished blue beads, but a gemological test is needed to distinguish turquoise from dyed imitations and identify treatments. Natural turquoise often has irregular color and matrix; value depends on authenticity, quality, origin, and workmanship.