mineral

Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla-bearing rock

Chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; possibly mixed with malachite or chrysocolla matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Irregular rough fragment with blue-green coloration and earthy to subvitreous luster. Chrysocolla has Mohs hardness 2.5–3.5, no prominent cleavage, and low-to-moderate specific gravity (about 2.0–2.4); exact properties vary with matrix minerals.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla-bearing rock
Scientific name: Chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; possibly mixed with malachite or chrysocolla matrix
Category: mineral
Identified: August 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a small common rough piece; $30–$150 or more for attractive, well-defined mineralized specimens.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary copper mineral in oxidized zones of copper deposits, precipitating from copper-rich groundwater. It is generally geologically young relative to its host rocks, commonly associated with malachite, azurite, quartz, and limonite.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary material, ornamental stone, pigment historically, and collector specimen; softer pieces are often stabilized before polishing. It has limited construction or industrial use.

Geological facts

Blue-green color reflects hydrated copper; darker green or blue patches may indicate malachite or azurite admixture. Color alone cannot distinguish it confidently from turquoise, dyed stone, or other copper minerals.

Field identification & locations

Common in Arizona, New Mexico, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mexico, and Australia. A streak, hardness test, magnification, and copper-mineral associations help identify it; avoid acid or destructive tests on valuable specimens.