How to Tell the Difference Between Genuine and Fake Turquoise

February 22, 2025

Turquoise has been treasured for centuries for its striking blue-green hues and unique veining. However, due to its popularity enamel ring, the market is flooded with fake turquoise, making it essential to know how to distinguish the real from the imitation. Whether you’re a collector, jeweler, or simply love the beauty of turquoise, here are some key methods to identify genuine stones.

1. Examine the Color and Texture

Authentic turquoise varies in color from sky blue to greenish-blue, with a smooth, waxy, or slightly porous surface. Fake turquoise, often made from dyed howlite or plastic, may appear too uniform or overly vibrant in color. Genuine turquoise may also contain natural matrix patterns (veins of other minerals), which are unique and irregular.

2. Perform the Scratch Test

Real turquoise is relatively soft (ranging from 5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale) but still harder than common imitations like howlite, which is much softer. Try gently scratching an inconspicuous part of the stone with a pin or knife. If it scratches easily, it is likely a fake or a softer mineral dyed to look like turquoise.

3. Check for Dye

Many imitations are made by dyeing howlite or magnesite. To test for dye, rub a cotton swab dipped in acetone or nail polish remover on an unsealed part of the stone. If the color rubs off, it is a dyed imitation.

4. Conduct a Heat Test

Heat can help differentiate genuine turquoise from plastic or resin-based fakes. Hold a heated needle against the stone’s surface. If it melts or gives off a plastic smell, it is not real turquoise.

5. Look at the Price and Source

Authentic, high-quality turquoise is not cheap. If a piece is being sold at an unusually low price, it is likely an imitation. Additionally, reputable sources and jewelers will disclose the stone’s origin and whether it has been treated or stabilized.

6. Check for Stabilization and Treatment

Natural turquoise is often stabilized to improve durability and enhance color. Stabilized turquoise is still real but has been treated with resin to make it harder. Reconstituted turquoise, on the other hand, is made from turquoise powder mixed with resin and is not considered natural. If a seller is honest about stabilization, it’s a good sign they are selling genuine stones.

7. Consult an Expert

If in doubt, take the stone to a gemologist or reputable jeweler for professional evaluation. They can conduct advanced tests such as spectroscopy to determine its authenticity.

Final Thoughts

With so many fakes on the market, it’s crucial to know how to identify real turquoise. By checking the color, texture, hardness, and origin of the stone, you can make an informed purchase and enjoy the beauty of genuine turquoise for years to come. Always buy from reputable sellers and, when in doubt, seek expert guidance.