mineral
Chrysocolla
Hydrated copper silicate (Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O
Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (often mixed with quartz reaching 7); Color: Cyan, blue-green, or turquoise; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (usually massive); SG: 2.0-2.4
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Cyan, blue-green, or turquoise
- Luster
- Vitreous to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (often mixed with quartz reaching 7); Color: Cyan, blue-green, or turquoise; Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (usually massive); SG: 2.0-2.4
Formation & geological history
Secondary mineral formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies, often occurring as crusts, vein fillings, or botryoidal masses in arid environments.
Uses & applications
Used as a minor ore of copper, as a gemstone for jewelry, and as a popular collector specimen.
Geological facts
Often confused with turquoise due to its color, but chrysocolla is softer and often has a more vivid green-leaning hue. It frequently forms as a mixture with other minerals like malachite, azurite, and quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blue-green color and its tendency to stick to the tongue due to its porous nature. Commonly found in copper mining districts of Arizona, Chile, and the DRC.
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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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous