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.

African Turquoise

A variety of Jasper

Uncommon

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

Rarity

3.8out of 5.0

76%

Popularity

3.9out of 5.0

78%

Beauty

4.2out of 5.0

84%

Cultural Value

3.9out of 5.0

78%

Collection Value

4.1out of 5.0

82%