mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green. Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, though rarely seen. Specific gravity: 2.60-2.85.
- Hardness
- 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green
- Luster
- Waxy to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green. Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, though rarely seen. Specific gravity: 2.60-2.85.
Formation & geological history
Formed by aqueous solutions percolating through aluminum-bearing rocks during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals (such as copper sulfides) in arid regions.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, inlay work, and as a collector's gemstone.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the world's most ancient gem materials, prized by the Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for thousands of years as a stone of protection and healing.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive robin's-egg blue or greenish-blue color, often webbed with dark brown or black matrix veins. Found in major mining regions such as the Southwestern United States, Iran, China, and Sinai.
