gemstone

Turquoise (possibly reconstituted or dyed howlite)

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Hydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate)

Hardness: 5-6 on Mohs scale (for natural turquoise). Color: Sky blue to greenish-blue with dark matrix or veining. Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic (rarely well-formed, usually microcrystalline). Cleavage: Perfect to good, but rarely seen in massive specimens. Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Hardness: 5-6 on Mohs scale (for natural turquoise)
Color: Sky blue to greenish-blue with dark matrix or veining
Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous

Identified July 22, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions through copper and aluminum-bearing host rocks. Commonly found in arid or desert regions near copper deposits.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry making, bead crafts, ornamental carvings, and fashion accessories. Historically used in talismans and Native American art.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used for thousands of years by Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Because true high-grade turquoise is rare, many commercial items are created from dyed minerals like howlite or magnesite, or reconstituted turquoise dust bound with resin.

Field identification & locations

Field identification involves noting its distinctive sky-blue color, spiderweb-like matrix (dark veinings of limonites or sandstone), waxy luster, and softness compared to quartz. Common localities include Iran, the Southwestern United States (Arizona, Nevada), China, and Tibet.

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