mineral

Blue-green copper mineralized rock, likely chrysocolla-bearing sandstone or copper ore

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate; approximate formula (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), possibly with malachite and copper oxides in a sandstone host

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Turquoise to blue-green, earthy and dull rather than crystalline; chrysocolla has Mohs hardness about 2.5–3.5, no clear cleavage, and specific gravity roughly 1.9–2.4. The tan surrounding material appears sandstone, while the dark piece at upper right may be unrelated rock.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green copper mineralized rock, likely chrysocolla-bearing sandstone or copper ore
Scientific name: Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate; approximate formula (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), possibly with malachite and copper oxides in a sandstone host
Category: mineral
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common rough piece; attractive polished or well-documented specimens may sell for $50–$200+.

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 the oxidized, near-surface zones of copper deposits when copper-bearing fluids alter silica- and aluminum-rich rocks. It commonly formed during relatively recent weathering of older copper ores, with exact age dependent on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Collected as an attractive copper mineral and occasionally cut into cabochons or ornamental stone; generally too soft and impure for major industrial use.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla is commonly confused with turquoise, malachite, and dyed materials; associated copper minerals may produce mottled blue, green, and brown colors.

Field identification & locations

Look for blue-green earthy coatings or masses near copper deposits, often alongside malachite, azurite, quartz, limonite, or host sandstone. Confirm with locality information or testing; color alone cannot establish identity.