mineral
Chrysocolla (Copper Ore matrix)
Chrysocolla (Cu2-xAlx(H2-xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O)
Hardness: 2.5 to 3.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Vivid turquoise blue, cyan, green, or blue-green. Luster: Vitreous to earthy/dull. Crystal system: Orthorhombic (often cryptocrystalline, botryoidal, or massive crusts). Specific Gravity: 2.0 to 2.4. Streak: Pale blue to green.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Vivid turquoise blue, cyan, green, or blue-green
- Luster
- Vitreous to earthy/dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 to 3.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Vivid turquoise blue, cyan, green, or blue-green. Luster: Vitreous to earthy/dull. Crystal system: Orthorhombic (often cryptocrystalline, botryoidal, or massive crusts). Specific Gravity: 2.0 to 2.4. Streak: Pale blue to green.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of copper sulfide ore bodies. It precipitates from copper-rich fluids altering primary copper minerals like chalcopyrite or bornite in arid or semi-arid geological environments.
Uses & applications
Minor ore of copper, popular gemstone for lapidary work, cabochons, carvings, decorative stones, and a prized collector specimen.
Geological facts
Chrysocolla is often confused with turquoise, but it is typically softer and has a higher water content. The name comes from the Greek 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referencing its ancient use as a flux for soldering gold.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive sky-blue to blue-green color crusting over host rock (often iron-stained matrix or quartz), soft harness, and association with other copper minerals like malachite, azurite, and tenorite. Commonly found in major copper mining regions in the Southwestern US (Arizona), Chile, the DRC, Peru, and Australia.
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