mineral
Turquoise (Rough)
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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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.
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