gemstone

Turquoise cabochon ring

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue-to-blue-green, waxy to subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic crystal system, usually massive rather than visibly crystalline, with white or brown matrix sometimes present. The setting is silver-colored metal with faceted decorative elements.

Identified September 17, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Turquoise cabochon ring
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 17, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $20–$150 for a common silver-set or treated ring; $200–$2,000+ for high-grade natural turquoise with documented provenance and quality metalwork.

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, aluminum- and phosphate-bearing rocks, commonly through weathering and groundwater alteration. Deposits range from ancient Precambrian to younger Cenozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry and ornamental objects; historically important in Persian, Egyptian, Indigenous American, and Central Asian crafts. The ring’s value depends strongly on naturalness, color, matrix, treatment, metal, and provenance.

Geological facts

Intense, even “robin’s-egg” blue is generally more valuable than green or heavily matrixed material. Many commercial stones are stabilized with resin or reconstructed from turquoise powder.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque blue color, relatively low hardness, waxy feel, and lack of glassy transparency; beware dyed howlite or plastic imitations. Common sources include Iran, Arizona, Nevada, China, Chile, and Mexico.