mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Blue, bluish-green, green. Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, though rarely seen in crystals. Specific gravity: 2.60-2.90.
- Hardness
- 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Blue, bluish-green, green
- Luster
- Waxy to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Blue, bluish-green, green. Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, though rarely seen in crystals. Specific gravity: 2.60-2.90.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the chemical action of percolating acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing copper deposits and aluminum-bearing minerals, typically in arid climates.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an ornamental gemstone in jewelry, inlay work, carvings, and talismans.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for its protective and sacred qualities.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic robin's egg blue or greenish-blue color, often webbed with dark brown or black matrix veins. Commonly found in the southwestern United States, Iran, China, and Sinai.
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