mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate, approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O), likely with malachite and copper sulfides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green to turquoise, earthy to dull/vitreous luster, generally massive rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, with no prominent cleavage. The dark metallic flecks may be chalcopyrite or another copper sulfide.

Identified August 13, 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 with malachite and copper sulfides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$40 for a common rough specimen; $50–$200+ for attractive, well-polished or locality-labeled 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 in oxidized zones above copper deposits when groundwater alters primary copper sulfides; commonly associated with malachite, azurite, limonite, and quartz. Usually Cenozoic to older supergene mineralization, depending on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and lapidary material, cabochons, beads, and mineral specimens; historically an indicator and minor ore of copper. Soft pieces require protective settings.

Geological facts

The vivid color comes from hydrated copper minerals, and chrysocolla is often confused with turquoise. Mixed chrysocolla–malachite specimens can show striking concentric or mottled green-blue patterns.

Field identification & locations

Identify by intense blue-green color, earthy texture, softness, and association with brown iron oxides or black copper minerals; a streak, hardness, and copper-mineral testing can confirm it. Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia.