mineral
Turquoise
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another (rarely seen as crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.60–2.90
- Hardness
- 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green
- Luster
- Waxy to subvitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Bright blue, bluish-green, to yellowish-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in another (rarely seen as crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.60–2.90
Formation & geological history
Formed by the action of descending meteoric waters percolating through copper-bearing rocks during changes in arid or semi-arid climatic conditions.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, beads, and inlay work. Highly valued in Native American jewelry.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Native Americans as an amulet of protection.
Field identification & locations
Found in arid regions where copper deposits are present, notably in the southwestern United States, Iran, China, and Mexico. Often imitated by treated howlite or synthetic materials.
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