mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness: 5-6; Color: Blue, bluish-green, green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal system: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another; Specific gravity: 2.60-2.85

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

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness: 5-6; Color: Blue, bluish-green, green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal system: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another; Specific gravity: 2.60-2.85

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in arid regions, typically by the action of meteoric waters percolating through copper-bearing aluminum-rich rocks.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a gemstone in jewelry, inlay work, and ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for amulets and ornamentation.

Field identification & locations

Easily recognized by its characteristic robin's egg blue or greenish-blue color, often webbed with dark matrix lines. Found globally in arid mining districts.