To tell if turquoise is real, you'll need to examine it closely to look for signs of authenticity. Real turquoise is a semi-precious stone prized for its unique blue-green color. Turquoise grows in dry and barren regions worldwide, including the southwestern United States, Mexico, Iran, and Tibet.
When shopping for turquoise jewelry or other items made with this stone, keep an eye out for fake versions made from cheaper materials like howlite or magnesite. These imitations can be challenging to spot if you're not familiar with what genuine turquoise looks like, but there are a few key differences you can look for.