mineral

Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla with malachite and quartz

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminum silicate; approximate formula (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), possibly mixed with malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂) and quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Vivid turquoise-blue to green, typically waxy to vitreous and massive rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4 for chrysocolla, 3.5–4 for malachite, and 7 for quartz. The specimen appears rough, matrix-bearing, and may show glassy quartz surfaces.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green copper mineral specimen, likely chrysocolla with malachite and quartz
Scientific name: Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminum silicate; approximate formula (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), possibly mixed with malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂) and quartz
Category: mineral
Identified: September 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common specimen; $30–$150+ for attractive, well-polished or vividly patterned pieces.

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 in oxidized zones of copper deposits when copper-rich fluids alter silica- and aluminum-bearing rock; commonly Cenozoic to older, with age depending on the host ore body.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative and lapidary material, cabochons, carvings, and mineral specimens; too soft and variable for most durable jewelry. Copper-associated material may have minor economic significance.

Geological facts

Blue chrysocolla is often confused with turquoise; greener banding or concentric patterns may indicate malachite, while clear or gray translucent areas suggest quartz.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Russia. Identify by turquoise color, low hardness, opaque botryoidal or massive texture, and copper-staining matrix; acid testing should be avoided on valuable pieces.