mineral

Turquoise (Rough)

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5-6. Color: Blue to green-blue. Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another. Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Hardness: 5-6
Color: Blue to green-blue
Luster: Waxy to subvitreous

Identified August 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6. Color: Blue to green-blue. Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another. Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the percolation of copper-bearing solutions through aluminous rocks in arid environments, typically as a secondary mineral.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, especially in Native American and Southwestern styles.

Geological facts

Turquoise has been valued as an ornamental stone for thousands of years by various cultures, including the Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive sky-blue to greenish-blue color, often with brown or black matrix (host rock) veining. Found in arid regions like the Southwestern US, Iran, and Egypt.