mineral

Bornite (“peacock ore”), likely weathered copper sulfide

Bornite, Cu₅FeS₄; possibly chalcopyrite, CuFeS₂, with iridescent tarnish

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Metallic luster with blue, purple, turquoise, bronze, and gold tarnish; typically massive and granular rather than well-crystallized. Bornite has Mohs hardness 3–3.25, uneven fracture, and specific gravity about 4.9–5.3; the image suggests a dense sulfide specimen.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal copper deposits, commonly with chalcopyrite, pyrite, quartz, and other sulfides. It is generally an ore mineral formed during hydrothermal activity, not a rock with a single geological age.

Uses & applications

Important copper ore historically, though attractive iridescent pieces are mainly sold as cabinet specimens or lapidary material. Common commercial pieces are worth roughly $5–$30; larger, natural, strongly iridescent specimens may reach $50–$200+.

Geological facts

The colorful surface is usually a thin oxidation or tarnish film, not the mineral’s original color; acid or abrasion can remove it. “Peacock ore” is often marketed as bornite but is frequently artificially treated chalcopyrite.

Field identification & locations

Identify with a metallic appearance, unusual weight, copper-blue iridescence, and possible green/blue oxidation products. A streak test, hardness test, density, and ideally XRF are needed to distinguish bornite from chalcopyrite. Copper sulfides are plausible in the broader Arabian Peninsula, but the exact locality cannot be confirmed from the image.