mineral

Turquoise

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Sky blue to blue-green with dark matrix veins. Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic (usually massive). Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs
Color: Sky blue to blue-green with dark matrix veins
Luster: Waxy to subvitreous

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

Explore Turquoise in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Sky blue to blue-green with dark matrix veins. Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic (usually massive). Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Formation & geological history

A secondary mineral formed by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals, typically in arid environments near copper deposits.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as a gemstone, in jewelrymaking (beads, pendants), and as ornamental carvings across many cultures.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in human history; it was mined by Ancient Egyptians as early as 3000 BCE and is highly sacred in Native American cultures like the Navajo and Zuni.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its unique 'robin's egg' blue color and dark spider-web matrix. Often found in the Southwestern US, Iran, China, and Egypt. Collectors should look for natural saturation and lack of artificial dyes.