mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 5-6, robin's egg blue to greenish-blue color, waxy to sub-vitreous luster, triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 5-6, robin's egg blue to greenish-blue color, waxy to sub-vitreous luster, triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the action of meteoric waters circulating through copper-bearing rocks in arid environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and inlay work.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the world's most ancient gem materials, prized by the ancient Egyptians and Native Americans.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blue-green color and matrix patterns; found primarily in arid mining regions such as the southwestern USA and Iran.
