Turquoise (with Quartz and Glass/Crystal Rondelles)
Hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate (Turquoise) / Silicon dioxide (Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Triclinic (Turquoise) / Trigonal (Quartz), tumbled chip habit
Mineral Group
Phosphates (Turquoise) / Silicates (Quartz)
Chemical Formula
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Turquoise) / SiO2 (Quartz)
Formation Process
Secondary mineral formed by aqueous solutions percolating through copper-bearing aluminum-rich rocks in arid regions
About This Crystal
A beaded stretch bracelet featuring tumbled chip beads of bright turquoise-blue turquoise (some with dark webbed matrix) interspersed with pale translucent quartz chips and separated by metallic rhinestone spacer rondelles.
Physical Characteristics
Turquoise: Blue to green-blue color, white streak, Mohs hardness 5 to 6, waxy to subvitreous luster, conchoidal to uneven fracture. Quartz: Colorless to pale blue-white, white streak, Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster.
Optical Properties
Turquoise is typically opaque with a subvitreous to waxy luster and is doubly refractive (aggregate). Quartz is transparent to translucent with uniaxial positive optical character.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Southwestern USA, China, Iran, Egypt (Turquoise); Worldwide (Quartz)
Hardness & Durability
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6 and is porous, requiring gentle care. Quartz has a Mohs hardness of 7 and is quite durable.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid harsh chemicals, cosmetics, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaners due to the porous nature of turquoise. Clean gently with a damp, soft cloth.
Rarity & Value
Common as mass-produced chip bead jewelry, with low to moderate commercial value depending on the natural grade of the turquoise used.
Special Characteristics
Features characteristic dark webbed matrix patterns in the turquoise chips caused by surrounding host rock minerals like limonite.
Lore & History
Turquoise is traditionally valued as a protective amulet, talisman of good fortune, and healing stone by many ancient cultures including Native Americans and ancient Egyptians. Associated primarily with the throat chakra.