mineral

Turquoise cabochon pendant

Turquoise, hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; likely stabilized or imitation turquoise

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green opaque, waxy to subvitreous luster, irregular dark matrix veining, typically cryptocrystalline and massive; Mohs hardness 5–6, specific gravity about 2.6–2.9, no visible cleavage. The smooth teardrop is a polished cabochon set in jewelry.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Turquoise cabochon pendant
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; likely stabilized or imitation turquoise
Category: mineral
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$50 for a mass-produced treated pendant; $50–$300+ for a verified natural turquoise cabochon, with exceptional provenance and matrix commanding 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, oxidized copper deposits, commonly replacing aluminum-rich rock; deposits are generally Cenozoic to older hydrothermal-weathering systems. The pendant has been cut, polished, drilled, and mounted with a metal bail.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for cabochons, beads, inlay, and ornamental jewelry; historically important in Persian, Egyptian, and Native American art. Fine natural material is collectible, while stabilized or reconstructed material is less valuable.

Geological facts

The web-like brown matrix may be limonite or host rock, but uniform color and extensive veining can also indicate dyed magnesite or reconstituted turquoise. Turquoise is the birthstone for December.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Chile, and Mexico. Natural turquoise feels slightly cool, is opaque, and scratches glass only poorly; acetone or heat tests can damage treatments, so laboratory testing is preferable.