Comparison · Minerals vs Semi-Precious Stones
Chrysocolla vs Turquoise
Chrysocolla and Turquoise are easy to confuse. Turquoise is harder (Mohs 6) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Turquoise will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Chrysocolla and Turquoise
- Turquoise is harder (Mohs 6) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Turquoise will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- Streak color differs: Chrysocolla leaves a white to pale blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Turquoise leaves white to pale green.
- Luster is different: Chrysocolla is vitreous while Turquoise is waxy.
- Turquoise feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 2.76 versus 2.2 for Chrysocolla).
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Chrysocolla is translucent, Turquoise is opaque.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Chrysocolla is orthorhombic, Turquoise is triclinic.
Chrysocolla vs Turquoise properties
| Property | Chrysocolla | Turquoise |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Semi-Precious Stones |
| Mohs hardness | 2.5 | 6 |
| Luster | vitreous | waxy |
| Streak | White to pale blue | White to pale green |
| Transparency | translucent | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.2 | 2.76 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic | triclinic |
| Common colors | Blue-Green, Cyan, Turquoise Blue | Blue, Blue-Green, Green |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $20–$1000+ |
Which is more valuable?
Turquoise is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $100 against $25 for Chrysocolla, and premium Turquoise can reach $1000 or more.
About Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is a vibrant blue-green copper mineral often confused with turquoise. When mixed with quartz, it's hard enough for jewelry.
About Turquoise
Turquoise is a blue-green phosphate mineral prized for thousands of years. Persian turquoise is considered the finest quality.
Chrysocolla vs Turquoise FAQ
Is Chrysocolla the same as Turquoise?
No. Chrysocolla is a mineral while Turquoise is a semi-precious stone. Turquoise is harder (Mohs 6) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Turquoise will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
How can you tell Chrysocolla from Turquoise?
Turquoise is harder (Mohs 6) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Turquoise will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Streak color differs: Chrysocolla leaves a white to pale blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Turquoise leaves white to pale green. Luster is different: Chrysocolla is vitreous while Turquoise is waxy.
Which is harder, Chrysocolla or Turquoise?
Turquoise is harder: Mohs 6 against Mohs 2.5 for Chrysocolla.
Which is more valuable, Chrysocolla or Turquoise?
Turquoise is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $100 against $25 for Chrysocolla, and premium Turquoise can reach $1000 or more.
