triclinic simulant turquoise simulant
Gilson Turquoise (Cabochon)
CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8*4H2O
Quick Facts
Hardness
5.0
Specific Gravity
2.4
Refractive Index
1.6
Optical Character
Biaxial +
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Gilson Turquoise
#! System: Triclinic (-1)
#! Habit: Triclinic pinacoidal crystal habit
triclinic[-1]:{010}@1.0 + {001}@0.9 + {110}@0.7
triclinic
-1
{010} {001} {110}
Physical Properties
Crystal Systemtriclinic
Hardness (Mohs)5.0
Specific Gravity2.4
LustreWaxy to dull
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.6
Birefringence0.04
Optical CharacterBiaxial +
FluorescenceInert to weak greenish
Origin & Identification
Originsimulant
Growth Methodgilson
ManufacturerGilson
First Produced1972
Diagnostic FeaturesMore porous than natural, lower SG (2.4 vs 2.6-2.8), distinctive blue appearance under magnification (lacks natural matrix patterns), may absorb dye unevenly, spiderweb pattern may appear too regular
Colours
BlueGreenish-bluewith optional dark matrix
Common Inclusions
Regular porosity patternAbsence of natural matrix
Interactive Preview
Open this crystal in the CDL Playground to rotate, export, and explore in 3D.
Open in Playground #! Species: Gilson Turquoise
#! System: Triclinic (-1)
#! Habit: Triclinic pinacoidal crystal habit
triclinic[-1]:{010}@1.0 + {001}@0.9 + {110}@0.7
Natural Counterpart
The natural gem this simulant imitates
Related Minerals
Other minerals in the triclinic system
