mineral

Chrysocolla

Cu2-xAlx(H2O)n(H2Si2O5)5 · nH2O (Hydrated copper aluminum silicate)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5 to 3.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Vibrant shades of blue, green, and turquoise, often with brown or black matrix inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to dull, earthy. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (though rarely found as distinct crystals; usually massive, botryoidal, or crusting). Cleavage: None.…

Hardness: 2
Luster: Vitreous to dull, earthy

Identified July 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidized zones of copper ore bodies, typically as a secondary mineral resulting from the alteration of copper-bearing minerals. Found in arid and semi-arid environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone, for ornamental carvings, in jewelry making, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla gets its vivid blue-green color directly from its high copper content. The name comes from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referencing its historical use in soldering gold.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct vibrant cyan-blue color, lower hardness, and association with other copper minerals like malachite and azurite. Commonly sourced from the southwestern United States, Chile, Peru, and Russia.