Turquoise
Turquoise tumbled
A variety of Turquoise
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise comes in a range of beautiful blue-green colors, sometimes veined with dark green, yellow, or orange. The shade most desired by collectors is sky-blue. Turquoise is sourced worldwide with mines in China, Iraq, Kazakhstan, and the USA. It is very popular when set into jewelry, made into beads and cabochons, and used as inlay for decorative pieces.
Uses & Applications
Turquoise has been prized for jewelry and ornamental objects for over 7,000 years. It is carved into cabochons, beads, and inlays. Native Americans consider it sacred and use it extensively in jewelry and ceremonial objects.
Healing Properties
Believed to be a master healer that dispels negative energy and promotes emotional balance. Thought to enhance communication, creativity, and intuition while providing protection during travel.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.61-1.65
- Pleochroism
- Weak
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.040
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Turquoise before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Turquoise Localities Map
See where Turquoise is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans valued turquoise as a protective stone. It symbolizes wisdom, tranquility, protection, good fortune, and hope. Many cultures believe it connects the earth and sky.
Geochemistry
Forms as a secondary mineral through weathering and oxidation of copper deposits in arid climates. Precipitates from copper-rich groundwater in fractures and cavities of host rocks.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue, green, blue-green, yellow-green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5-6
- Density
- 2.6-2.9 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to pale green
- Luster
- Waxy
- Crystal System
- Triclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O
- Elements
- Cu, Al, P, O, H
Also Known As
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Turquoise FAQs
How do I identify Turquoise?
Turquoise can be identified by its hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, Blue color, Waxy luster, Triclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Turquoise?
Turquoise typically appears in Blue, green, blue-green, yellow-green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Turquoise?
Turquoise has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.