mineral

Chrysocolla-bearing rock (likely chrysocolla in a host rock)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rounded, dark gray-green matrix with irregular blue-green to turquoise patches and a generally dull, earthy luster. Chrysocolla is soft (Mohs 2–4), noncrystalline or cryptocrystalline, and commonly has no visible cleavage; the dark matrix may be quartz, limonite, or volcanic rock.

Identified September 6, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysocolla-bearing rock (likely chrysocolla in a host rock)
Scientific name: Chrysocolla, hydrated copper aluminosilicate: approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O
Category: mineral
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common rough specimen; $30–$150+ if unusually colorful, polished, or strongly patterned.

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, often replacing or coating earlier sulfides. It is generally young in geological terms, forming during weathering near the surface rather than during original rock crystallization.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, cabochon material, and copper-ore indicator; attractive specimens may be polished, though soft chrysocolla requires care. It has limited industrial value compared with major copper ores.

Geological facts

The turquoise color comes from hydrated copper minerals; associated minerals may include malachite, azurite, turquoise, cuprite, and quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by blue-green color, soft earthy texture, and association with copper minerals; a streak or hardness test can help, but avoid damaging the specimen. Common localities include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia.