mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate), likely with malachite and/or chrysocolla pseudomorphs in a copper sulfide/iron-oxide matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green to turquoise-green, commonly dull to waxy or glassy; typically massive and lacking visible crystals. Chrysocolla has Mohs hardness about 2.5–3.5, while associated matrix may be harder and denser; cleavage is poor or absent.

Identified September 9, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore
Scientific name: Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate), likely with malachite and/or chrysocolla pseudomorphs in a copper sulfide/iron-oxide matrix
Category: mineral
Identified: September 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a small rough common specimen; $30–$150+ for attractive, well-polished or strongly patterned 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 oxidized zones above copper deposits, where groundwater alters primary copper sulfides. Commonly Cenozoic or older depending on the host deposit; exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary and ornamental material, in cabochons and specimens; too soft for most durable jewelry. Copper-bearing ore is economically important where deposits are large and concentrated.

Geological facts

The blue-green color is diagnostic of oxidized copper minerals, but chrysocolla can resemble turquoise, plancheite, or dyed stone. The reddish-brown matrix may contain iron oxides or cuprite-rich material.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia. Field confirmation requires hardness, streak, density, and ideally chemical or Raman testing; the photo alone cannot establish an exact species.