mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore

Chrysocolla, hydrated copper aluminosilicate (approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), likely mixed with copper oxides and quartz/matrix minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green to turquoise, typically earthy to waxy or dull luster, botryoidal or massive rather than well-crystallized; Mohs hardness about 2.5–3.5, no prominent cleavage, specific gravity roughly 1.9–2.4. The brown material is likely iron-stained host rock or limonite.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore
Scientific name: Chrysocolla, hydrated copper aluminosilicate (approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), likely mixed with copper oxides and quartz/matrix minerals
Category: mineral
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $50–$200+ for large, vivid, polished, or well-patterned pieces.

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, where acidic groundwater alters primary sulfides; commonly associated with malachite, azurite, cuprite, quartz, and limonite. Deposits range from ancient to geologically recent.

Uses & applications

Used as a collectible mineral and occasionally cut into cabochons or beads; softer material is usually stabilized with resin. Copper ores containing chrysocolla may be economically mined, but this specimen is primarily ornamental.

Geological facts

Its vivid color can resemble turquoise, but chrysocolla is generally softer and less durable. Silica-rich varieties may be hard enough for jewelry, while pure massive material scratches easily.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the intense blue-green color, earthy texture, softness, and association with brown iron oxides or other copper minerals; common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia.