mineral
Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla (Cu2-xAlx(H2-xSi2O5)(OH)4 · nH2O)
Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (often harder if mixed with quartz); Color: Cyan, turquoise, or greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous/Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Cyan, turquoise, or greenish-blue
- Luster
- Vitreous to earthy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Chrysocolla in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (often harder if mixed with quartz); Color: Cyan, turquoise, or greenish-blue; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous/Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4
Formation & geological history
Secondary mineral formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies where copper minerals are altered by silica-rich waters. Often found in arid regions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a minor copper ore, for ornamental carvings, semi-precious gemstones in jewelry, and as a collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Chrysocolla is often confused with turquoise because of its color. It is a 'hydrated copper phyllosilicate' and is frequently found intergrown with minerals like quartz, malachite, and azurite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blue-green color and its tendency to stick to the tongue due to its porous nature. It is common in Southwestern USA, Chile, Congo, and Russia. Collectors look for high color saturation and translucency.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock