mineral

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

Chrysocolla, hydrated copper silicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; possibly mixed with quartz or turquoise

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Turquoise-blue to green, dull to waxy luster, opaque, irregular massive texture, and no visible cleavage; Mohs hardness is typically 2.5–4, though quartz-rich material is harder. The specimen’s rough, botryoidal-looking surface and copper coloration support a chrysocolla-rich identification, but exact identification re…

Identified September 16, 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 silicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; possibly mixed with quartz or turquoise
Category: mineral
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 as a rough hand specimen; $20–$150 or more for attractive polished, stabilized, or gem-quality material.

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-ore mineral in oxidized zones above copper deposits, commonly replacing or coating host rock. It is generally geologically young relative to its host deposit, forming during weathering and groundwater alteration.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone, cabochon, ornamental material, and copper-ore indicator; softer pieces are often stabilized with resin for jewelry. It has limited construction value.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla commonly occurs with malachite, azurite, cuprite, limonite, and quartz, producing attractive blue-green patterns. Similar-looking turquoise, dyed quartz, and chrysocolla-quartz composites are common commercial alternatives.

Field identification & locations

Look for blue-green color, low hardness, earthy-to-waxy luster, and association with other copper minerals; it may scratch with a steel knife. Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, Mexico, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.