mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate), commonly with malachite, azurite, quartz, and limonite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Irregular, earthy specimen with mottled blue-green, green, yellow-brown, and dark areas; chrysocolla is typically amorphous to cryptocrystalline, has Mohs hardness 2–4, dull to vitreous luster, and no distinct cleavage. Copper minerals may produce a pale blue-green streak, while iron oxides create the brown matrix.

Identified September 2, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysocolla-bearing copper ore
Scientific name: Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate), commonly with malachite, azurite, quartz, and limonite
Category: mineral
Identified: September 2, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 for a common rough specimen; $30–$150+ for strongly colored, polished, or well-formed collector 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 acidic groundwater alters primary copper sulfides; associated minerals develop through supergene enrichment, generally in relatively young weathering environments rather than a single geological age.

Uses & applications

Used as a copper ore when sufficiently concentrated, and as a lapidary, ornamental, and mineral-collecting material. Attractive polished pieces may be sold as chrysocolla-malachite.

Geological facts

The vivid colors result from hydrated copper minerals; blue chrysocolla, green malachite, and blue azurite commonly occur together. Copper-bearing material can be toxic if dust is inhaled or material is licked.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia. Identify it by its blue-green copper staining, earthy texture, associated malachite/azurite, and lack of glassy crystal faces; confirm with laboratory testing.