mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs); Color: Sky blue to turquoise green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic (usually massive/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs)
Color: Sky blue to turquoise green
Luster: Waxy to subvitreous

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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 turquoise green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic (usually massive/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral by the action of percolating acidic solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals containing copper and phosphorus, typically in arid desert environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads) and ornamental carvings; also holds significant cultural value in Native American and Persian traditions.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the world's oldest known gemstones, mined for thousands of years in the Sinai Peninsula by Ancient Egyptians and in Persia. The name comes from the French 'turquois', meaning 'Turkish', as it reached Europe through Turkey.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive robin's egg blue color and dark host rock veins known as matrix. Commonly found in Arizona (Sleeping Beauty Mine), Nevada, Iran, and China. Collectors look for high polish and natural matrix patterns.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral