metamorphic

Chalcopyrite-bearing metamorphic rock (possibly bornite/chalcopyrite ore)

Likely quartz–sulfide rock containing chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂); identification from the image is tentative

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray, rough and massive, with brassy iridescent patches and a white quartz-like band. Chalcopyrite has Mohs hardness 3.5–4, metallic luster, tetragonal crystals; quartz is Mohs 7 and vitreous. Specific gravity varies with sulfide content.

Identified September 27, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Chalcopyrite-bearing metamorphic rock (possibly bornite/chalcopyrite ore)
Scientific name: Likely quartz–sulfide rock containing chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂); identification from the image is tentative
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 27, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small, common hand specimen; more if verified and unusually attractive.

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

May have formed through hydrothermal mineralization and later metamorphism; exact age and geological setting cannot be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Copper sulfide ores are mined for copper; attractive pieces may be kept as teaching or collector specimens.

Geological facts

Iridescent tarnish on copper sulfides can resemble a rainbow-colored surface, but color alone cannot distinguish chalcopyrite from related minerals.

Field identification & locations

Look for brassy metallic grains, dark host rock, and quartz veins; a streak or hardness test and mineral analysis would help confirm the identification. Copper sulfides occur in many hydrothermal and metamorphosed ore deposits worldwide.