Rock Identifier
Turquoise-colored bead on a metal earring (Unidentified blue-green bead; possibly turquoise (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O), but the image cannot confirm its material) — gemstone
gemstone

Turquoise-colored bead on a metal earring

Unidentified blue-green bead; possibly turquoise (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O), but the image cannot confirm its material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The round bead is opaque, smooth, and blue-green with a glossy surface. Hardness, crystal structure, and specific gravity cannot be determined visually; it may be a dyed stone or imitation rather than natural turquoise.

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Physical properties

The round bead is opaque, smooth, and blue-green with a glossy surface. Hardness, crystal structure, and specific gravity cannot be determined visually; it may be a dyed stone or imitation rather than natural turquoise.

Formation & geological history

If genuine, turquoise forms as a secondary copper-bearing phosphate in weathered, arid-zone deposits; its age varies by deposit. The bead has been shaped and polished for jewelry.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative component in jewelry. The attached earring hardware is metal.

Geological facts

Color alone is not sufficient to identify turquoise: glass, plastic, dyed minerals, and reconstituted turquoise can look similar.

Field identification & locations

The image shows a small polished bead but no diagnostic veining or matrix. Confirming identity requires tests such as magnification and material-specific gemological examination.