Rock Identifier
Native Copper with Malachite and Chrysocolla (Native Copper (Cu) with Malachite [Cu2CO3(OH)2] and Chrysocolla [(Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O]) — mineral
mineral

Native Copper with Malachite and Chrysocolla

Native Copper (Cu) with Malachite [Cu2CO3(OH)2] and Chrysocolla [(Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O]

Hardness: 2.5-3 (copper), 3.5-4 (malachite); Color: Bright copper-orange with mint-green and teal coating; Luster: Metallic for the core, earthy/dull for the crust; Crystal structure: Cubic (copper), Monoclinic (malachite); Specific Gravity: ~8.9 for the copper core.

Hardness
2
Color
Bright copper-orange with mint-green and teal coating
Luster
Metallic for the core, earthy/dull for the crust
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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3 (copper), 3.5-4 (malachite); Color: Bright copper-orange with mint-green and teal coating; Luster: Metallic for the core, earthy/dull for the crust; Crystal structure: Cubic (copper), Monoclinic (malachite); Specific Gravity: ~8.9 for the copper core.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the secondary oxidation zones of copper-rich hydrothermal deposits. As native copper is exposed to oxygen and carbonated/silicated water over thousands of years, it undergoes chemical weathering to form secondary green minerals.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a mineral specimen for collectors and decorative display. Native copper is also an industrial source of high-purity copper, while associated minerals are and occasionally used for pigments or cabochon jewelry.

Geological facts

Native copper occurs as a free element in nature rather than being bound to sulfur or oxygen. The green coating seen here is a natural 'patina' that protects the metal inner core from further rapid corrosion.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the high weight (heavy for its size) and the characteristic copper-red interior visible through 'windows' in the green oxidation. Common locations include the Keweenaw Peninsula (Michigan, USA), Arizona, and the Katanga Province (Congo).

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