gemstone
Turquoise cabochon
Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectBlue-green, opaque, waxy to dull luster, commonly matrix-veined; Mohs hardness 5–6, specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The rounded polished cabochon shows pale turquoise with dark brown/gray host-matrix markings.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Turquoise cabochon in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Blue-green, opaque, waxy to dull luster, commonly matrix-veined; Mohs hardness 5–6, specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The rounded polished cabochon shows pale turquoise with dark brown/gray host-matrix markings.
Formation & geological history
Forms as a secondary mineral in arid, copper-rich, aluminum- and phosphate-bearing rocks through groundwater alteration, commonly during the Cenozoic. Important deposits occur in Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Chile, and Mexico.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in cabochon jewelry, inlay, carvings, and ornaments; lower-grade material is sometimes stabilized with resin or dyed. It is not generally used as a construction stone.
Geological facts
Natural turquoise often has irregular matrix patterns, while stabilized turquoise is resin-treated to improve durability. Similar-looking materials include dyed howlite or magnesite and synthetic turquoise.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque blue-green color, relatively low hardness, waxy surface, and matrix; avoid scratching finished pieces. The pictured specimen appears mounted or displayed on a manufactured pink object, but the inset stone itself is geological material.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Topaz
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary