mineral

Turquoise (Dyed Howlite/Magnesite imitation)

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Target mineral) / MgCO3 (Magnesite substrate)

Hardness: 3.5-4.5 (Magnesite) vs 5-6 (True Turquoise); Color: Sky blue with dark grey/black 'spiderweb' matrix; Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (substrate); Specific Gravity: 3.0

Hardness: 3
Color: Sky blue with dark grey/black 'spiderweb' matrix
Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the infiltration of moisture through sedimentary or metamorphic rocks. The specimen shown appears to be a secondary mineral (Howlite or Magnesite) that has been dyed blue to mimic genuine turquoise.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in costume jewelry, beads, and mass-market decorative crafts due to its affordability compared to genuine turquoise.

Geological facts

Genuine turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, used by Egyptian Pharaohs and Aztec Kings. However, over 90% of 'turquoise' on the market today is actually dyed magnesite or howlite.

Field identification & locations

To identify in the field or shop: Use a cotton swab with acetone; if the blue color rubs off, it is dyed. Real turquoise is colder to the touch and harder. Commonly found in Arizona, Nevada, China, and Iran.

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