mineral

Turquoise

Turquoise — hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green, opaque, waxy to subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The orange-brown areas may be matrix or iron staining; the piece appears polished or tumbled.

Identified August 16, 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

At a glance

Common name: Turquoise
Scientific name: Turquoise — hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common tumbled or stabilized piece; $50–$300+ for attractive natural, high-grade turquoise, with exceptional mine-provenance material much higher.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary phosphate mineral in arid, copper-rich, weathered volcanic or sedimentary rocks, generally by low-temperature groundwater alteration. Most deposits are geologically young compared with their host rocks, commonly Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Used as a cabochon gemstone, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; historically important in jewelry and ceremonial artifacts. Lower-grade material is also used for inexpensive inlay and polished specimens.

Geological facts

Its color comes mainly from copper, while iron can shift it toward green or brown. Natural turquoise is commonly stabilized with resin, and dyed imitations or reconstructed turquoise are widespread.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque blue-green color, relatively soft surface, waxy luster, and often brown or black matrix; it should not show glass-like transparency. Common sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Mexico, Chile, and Egypt.