mineral

Chrysocolla

Hydrated copper phyllosilicate, (Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O

Hardness: 2 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Vibrant shades of cyan, blue, green, and turquoise, often mixed with brown or black matrix. Luster: Vitreous to earthy. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic/amorphous, typically found as botryoidal masses, crusts, or vein fillings. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.0 to 2.4.

Hardness: 2 to 4 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to earthy

Identified August 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies, precipitated from silica-rich solutions circulating through copper deposits.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone, for ornamental carvings, and as a collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Its name comes from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referencing the material used historically to solder gold.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its vivid blue-green coloration and relatively soft nature. Found globally in major copper-producing regions such as the southwestern United States, Chile, Peru, and Russia.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)

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Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral