African Turquoise
A variety of Jasper
What is African Turquoise?
Despite its trade name, african Turquoise is not actually turquoise, but rather a type of jasper. It is generally produced in Africa (hence the name) and it's often processed to achieve a more attractive appearance. It's a cheaper alternative to its expensive counterpart, but thanks to its chemical structure, it's significantly tougher than turquoise.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.54
- Birefringence
- 0.003-0.009
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.013
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge African 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.
Where to Find African Turquoise
African Turquoise is a variety of Jasper. RockHoundR, the free-to-download rockhounding map from the Ruby Glint team, shows where collectors find jasper in the US, with land-access notes for BLM land and national forests. Collecting is banned in national parks.
See where to find jasperAlways check the local rules and get the landowner's permission before you collect.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️African Turquoise dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper.
- ⚠️African Turquoise is safe to handle in its finished, polished state, but excessive exposure to its dust may lead to heavy metal poisoning. When cutting or polishing african Turquoise, wear a dust mask to minimize dust inhalation. Store it in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue, green, brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6.5 - 7
- Rock tumbling
- With care
- Density
- 2.6 - 2.8 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO₂
- Elements
- Si,O
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African Turquoise FAQs
How do I identify African Turquoise?
African Turquoise can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Blue color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is African Turquoise?
African Turquoise typically appears in Blue, green, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is African Turquoise?
African Turquoise has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.