mineral
Chrysocolla (with Quartz and Malachite)
Cu2-xAlx(H2-xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O
Hardness: 2-4 on Mohs scale (higher when silicified with quartz); Color: pale green, turquoise blue, bluish-green; Luster: vitreous, waxy, to earthy; Cleavage: none; Crystal structure: orthorhombic/amorphous; Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4
- Hardness
- 2-4 on Mohs scale (higher when silicified with quartz)
- Color
- pale green, turquoise blue, bluish-green
- Luster
- vitreous, waxy, to earthy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Chrysocolla (with Quartz and Malachite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2-4 on Mohs scale (higher when silicified with quartz); Color: pale green, turquoise blue, bluish-green; Luster: vitreous, waxy, to earthy; Cleavage: none; Crystal structure: orthorhombic/amorphous; Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4
Formation & geological history
Secondary mineral formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies. It is created by copper-rich water percolating through silica-rich rocks and precipitating in fractures and cavities alongside malachite, azurite, and quartz.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a copper ore in some regions, as a popular mineral specimen for collectors, and for lapidary work (cabochons, beads, and carvings) when silicified into chrysocolla chalcedony.
Geological facts
Chrysocolla was used by ancient Greek philosopher Theophrastus as a fluxing agent in soldering gold. The name stems from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue). It is often mistaken for turquoise or malachite due to its vibrant blue-green hues.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its distinct soft bluish-green oxidation crust on copper-bearing matrix rock. It typically feels lightweight and adheres slightly to the tongue when wet. Commonly found in copper-mining regions like Arizona (USA), Chile, Peru, the DRC, and Namibia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock