mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate), commonly with malachite and quartz/matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically blue-green to turquoise-green, earthy to dull/vitreous luster, massive rather than well-crystallized; hardness about 2.5–4 Mohs, poor or indistinct cleavage, specific gravity roughly 1.9–2.4. The specimen appears to contain brown host rock and green-blue copper minerals.

Identified September 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary copper mineral in oxidized zones above copper sulfide deposits, usually in arid environments; commonly associated with malachite, azurite, limonite, and quartz. Formation is generally geologically young relative to the host rocks, often during weathering over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary and ornamental stone, in cabochons and carvings; attractive specimens are collected, while low-grade material has little industrial copper value.

Geological facts

Its vivid color comes from hydrated copper minerals; chrysocolla is often mistaken for turquoise, but it is generally softer and more opaque.

Field identification & locations

Identify by blue-green earthy patches, irregular massive texture, and association with brown iron-stained matrix; confirm with hardness and professional testing because malachite/turquoise mixtures can look similar. Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, Mexico, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.