mineral
Chrysocolla (Copper Ore)
Cu2-xAlx(H2-xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 2.0 to 4.0 on the Mohs scale, vivid cyan, turquoise, or blue-green color, vitreous to earthy luster, amorphous or microcrystalline structure, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.0-2.4.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Chrysocolla (Copper Ore) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness 2.0 to 4.0 on the Mohs scale, vivid cyan, turquoise, or blue-green color, vitreous to earthy luster, amorphous or microcrystalline structure, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.0-2.4.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits where copper-bearing fluids react with silica-rich groundwater. Commonly associated with malachite, azurite, and quartz.
Uses & applications
Minor copper ore, popular ornamental stone, widely used in cabochons for jewelry, lapidary arts, and highly prized by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The name 'chrysocolla' derives from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referencing its ancient use as a flux to weld gold. It often forms pseudomorphs after other minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive sky-blue to blue-green color in copper mining districts, soft texture compared to turquoise, and association with other secondary copper minerals. Found in Arizona and New Mexico (USA), Chile, Peru, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary