mineral

Chrysocolla

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

Hardness: 2 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Blue, green, and turquoise. Luster: Vitreous, earthy, or dull. Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (often occurs in amorphous, botryoidal, or massive form). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.0 to 2.4.

Hardness: 2 to 4 on the Mohs scale
Color: Blue, green, and turquoise
Luster: Vitreous, earthy, or dull

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies, typically as a secondary mineral precipitated from copper-bearing solutions interacting with silica-rich fluids in arid environments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone, for cabochons, ornamental carvings, and as a mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), because it was historically used to solder gold.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its vibrant blue-green color and low hardness. Often found alongside other copper minerals like malachite, azurite, and cuprite. Common localities include the US (Arizona), Chile, Peru, Russia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

sedimentary

Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)

mineral

Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Schist

Metamorphic