mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing quartz (likely chrysocolla in quartz)

Chrysocolla, hydrated copper aluminosilicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O, intergrown with quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness is variable, about 2.5–4 for chrysocolla and 7 for quartz; blue-green to turquoise-green, commonly botryoidal or massive, with vitreous quartz and dull-to-waxy chrysocolla luster. Quartz is crystalline and often translucent; chrysocolla lacks prominent cleavage.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysocolla-bearing quartz (likely chrysocolla in quartz)
Scientific name: Chrysocolla, hydrated copper aluminosilicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O, intergrown with quartz (SiO₂)
Category: mineral
Identified: September 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 for a small rough specimen; $30–$150 or more for attractive polished material or strongly colored collector-grade 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 coating or replacement in oxidized zones of copper deposits, commonly with malachite, azurite, and limonite. Formation is generally geologically young relative to the host ore, occurring during weathering near the surface.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary and ornamental material, in cabochons and polished specimens; softer pieces are mainly collectible rather than suitable for everyday jewelry. It has minor historical use as a copper ore.

Geological facts

The vivid blue-green color comes from hydrated copper. The specimen appears to contain pale quartz or chalcedony with dark green chrysocolla and possibly malachite or matrix minerals.

Field identification & locations

Look for blue-green color, irregular massive texture, copper-stained matrix, and association with quartz, malachite, or azurite; avoid confusing it with turquoise, which is generally more uniformly opaque. Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Australia.