mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 5 to 6. Color ranges from robin's egg blue to green, often with dark webbed matrix veins. Luster is waxy to sub-vitreous with a triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 5 to 6. Color ranges from robin's egg blue to green, often with dark webbed matrix veins. Luster is waxy to sub-vitreous with a triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the chemical action of descending acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing copper-bearing minerals in arid climates.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a gemstone in Native American and modern jewelry, as well as for ornamental carvings and inlay work.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the world's most ancient gems, prized by the ancient Egyptians and early Mesoamerican civilizations for amulets and burial ornaments.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive sky-blue color and matrix webbing. Found globally in arid mining regions such as the southwestern United States, Iran, and China.
