Crystal & mineral guide
Turquoise
CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Iconic blue-green gem — Persian material remains the trade benchmark.
Identify Turquoise with RockScanAbout Turquoise
Matrix patterns are part of turquoise's identity. Persian sky-blue without matrix is legendary in Middle Eastern and Gulf jewelry. Much modern turquoise is stabilized with resin. Dyed howlite is the classic imitation — always inspect cut edges and porosity.
Turquoise belongs in a crystal identifier workflow because photo cues — color zoning, crystal habit, and surface luster — combine with measurable traits like Mohs 5–6 and specific gravity 2.6–2.9. Use RockScan’s camera to get a first-pass ID, then confirm with the checklist below.
Turquoise properties
| Mohs hardness | 5–6 |
|---|---|
| Crystal system | Triclinic |
| Luster | Waxy to sub-vitreous |
| Color | Sky blue to green-blue |
| Composition | Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate |
| Formation | Secondary mineral in arid copper-bearing rocks |
| Occurrence | Iran, USA (Southwest), China, Tibet |
| Specific gravity | 2.6–2.9 |
| Cleavage | Perfect but rarely seen |
How to identify Turquoise
- Waxy luster and natural matrix
- Hardness moderate — protect from knocks
- Watch for dye on white howlite fakes
Collector notes
- Name may derive from 'Turkish' trade routes to Europe
- Iranian Nishapur turquoise set historic quality standards
Value context: Natural untreated fine blue with attractive matrix is highest tier.
Turquoise FAQ
How do you identify Turquoise?
Turquoise (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O) is typically recognized by sky blue to green-blue color, waxy to sub-vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 5–6, and triclinic crystal system. RockScan can suggest Turquoise from a photo and surface these checks on the result card.
What is Turquoise made of?
Turquoise composition: Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate. It forms via secondary mineral in arid copper-bearing rocks and is found in Iran, USA (Southwest), China, Tibet.
Is Turquoise valuable?
Natural untreated fine blue with attractive matrix is highest tier.
