mineral
Chalcopyrite in Quartz matrix
Chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) with secondary Malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2)
Hardness: 3.5-4 (chalcopyrite), 7 (quartz); Color: Brass-yellow (chalcopyrite), Green (malachite staining); Luster: Metallic to dull; Structure: Tetragonal/Amorphous; Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Brass-yellow (chalcopyrite), Green (malachite staining)
- Luster
- Metallic to dull
Identified More mineral →
Explore Chalcopyrite in Quartz matrix in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 (chalcopyrite), 7 (quartz); Color: Brass-yellow (chalcopyrite), Green (malachite staining); Luster: Metallic to dull; Structure: Tetragonal/Amorphous; Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and through sulfide mineral precipitation in igneous and metamorphic rocks. The green oxidation indicates weathering of copper-bearing minerals over time.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of copper; occasionally used as collector specimens or for decorative purposes.
Geological facts
Chalcopyrite is often called 'fool's gold,' but it is more yellow and brittle than real gold. It turns green (malachite/azurite) when exposed to moisture and oxygen due to its copper content.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its brassy yellow color and greenish-black streak. Look for it in quartz veins near copper mines or tectonic plate boundaries. Malachite staining is a key indicator of copper presence.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock