mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 5 to 6; sky-blue, blue-green, or green color; waxy to sub-vitreous luster; triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 5 to 6; sky-blue, blue-green, or green color; waxy to sub-vitreous luster; triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms by the action of meteoric waters percolating through copper-bearing aluminum rocks in arid climates.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in fine jewelry, decorative carvings, and beadwork.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, prized by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Native Americans.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive robin's-egg blue color and dark web-like matrix veins; found in arid regions worldwide including the southwestern USA, Iran, and China.
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Tumbled granite
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Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic