mineral

Botryoidal chrysocolla-rich copper ore

Chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate (approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), likely with malachite and quartz/gangue

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green to turquoise, typically dull to waxy or glassy; botryoidal crusts and mottled matrix are characteristic. Mohs hardness is about 2.5–3.5 for chrysocolla (harder if quartz-rich); cleavage is poor and specific gravity is roughly 2.0–2.4.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

Explore Botryoidal chrysocolla-rich copper ore in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Botryoidal chrysocolla-rich copper ore
Scientific name: Chrysocolla, hydrated copper phyllosilicate (approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), likely with malachite and quartz/gangue
Category: mineral
Identified: September 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common rough specimen; $40–$200+ for attractive, well-polished or unusually vivid 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 mineral in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, commonly replacing or coating earlier sulfides; associated malachite, azurite, cuprite, and quartz. It is generally geologically young relative to the host ore, forming during weathering and groundwater alteration.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary and ornamental material, in cabochons and specimens; it is too soft for most high-wear jewelry. Copper ores containing chrysocolla may be economically processed for copper.

Geological facts

The blue-green color comes from hydrated copper; its appearance can overlap with turquoise, plancheite, and dyed materials. Botryoidal surfaces resemble clustered bubbles or grapes.

Field identification & locations

Look for vivid blue-green botryoidal coatings, irregular mottling, and copper-mineral associations; a streak, hardness, and chemical testing help confirm it. Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia.