mineral

Chrysocolla in Matrix

Hydrated copper silicate - (Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (often harder if mixed with quartz); Color: Cyan (blue-green) to green; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (often cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4.

Hardness: 2
Color: Cyan (blue-green) to green
Luster: Vitreous to earthy

Identified February 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies. It results from the weathering of primary copper minerals by silica-rich water. It can be found in deposits ranging from recent to millions of years old based on the parent ore.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a minor copper ore, as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beadsing), and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors due to its vibrant color.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla is often confused with turquoise, but it is softer and lacks the phosphorous content. The name comes from the Greek 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referring to its ancient use as a flux for soldering gold.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its striking turquoise-blue color and its tendency to stick to the tongue due to its porous nature. Commonly found in arid copper-mining regions like Arizona (USA), Chile, Peru, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral