mineral

Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla or turquoise

Probable chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate (Cu₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O); turquoise, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O, is an alternative

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green, dull to waxy luster, irregular massive texture, and no visible crystal faces; chrysocolla has Mohs hardness 2–4, while turquoise is 5–6. Specific gravity is approximately 2.0–2.4 for chrysocolla or 2.6–2.9 for turquoise.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla or turquoise
Scientific name: Probable chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate (Cu₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O); turquoise, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O, is an alternative
Category: mineral
Identified: August 8, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small rough common specimen; attractive turquoise or gem-quality material may range from $25 to several hundred dollars.

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

A secondary copper-ore mineral formed when acidic, oxidizing groundwater alters copper deposits, generally in arid regions; formation may range from millions to tens of millions of years old. The photograph lacks diagnostic tests, so exact identification is uncertain.

Uses & applications

Used as a low-cost ornamental stone, cabochon, bead, and collector specimen; copper minerals may also indicate economically important porphyry-copper deposits.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla commonly occurs with malachite, azurite, quartz, and limonite, producing mottled blue-green surfaces. Turquoise is typically more compact and opaque, often with brown or black matrix veining.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia. A streak, hardness, specific-gravity, and chemical test would distinguish it; avoid acids and prolonged water exposure.