mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green, often with dark brown or black webbed veins (matrix). Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another, but rarely seen. Specific Gravity: 2.60-2.85.
- Hardness
- 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Waxy to subvitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green, often with dark brown or black webbed veins (matrix). Luster: Waxy to subvitreous. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another, but rarely seen. Specific Gravity: 2.60-2.85.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the chemical action of descending acidic water containing copper as it percolates through aluminum-bearing rock in arid regions.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a gemstone in jewelry, inlay work, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Native Americans for its protective and sacred qualities.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct robin's egg blue or greenish-blue color and matrix webbing. Found in arid regions like the southwestern United States, Iran, China, and Sinai.
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