mineral

Copper-bearing rock, likely chrysocolla–malachite with limonite

Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate) and malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂), with iron oxides and possible native copper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray, rough, earthy to dull luster with pale blue-green and whitish coatings; likely Mohs 2–4, nonmetallic, and lacking visible crystal faces. The blue-green colors indicate secondary copper minerals, while the dark matrix may be iron-rich host rock or sulfide alteration.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Copper-bearing rock, likely chrysocolla–malachite with limonite
Scientific name: Chrysocolla (hydrated copper aluminosilicate) and malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂), with iron oxides and possible native copper
Category: mineral
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 as a common rough specimen; $50–$200+ if unusually colorful, well-crusted, or confirmed as a quality chrysocolla–malachite specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidized zone of a copper deposit when groundwater altered primary copper sulfides; such assemblages are commonly Cenozoic to Precambrian depending on the deposit and occur near the surface.

Uses & applications

Copper minerals are mined for copper; attractive chrysocolla–malachite pieces are sold as lapidary material, cabochons, carvings, and mineral specimens, though this rough piece appears mainly collectible.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla is typically blue to blue-green and may grade into green malachite; limonite commonly produces brown, yellow, or black earthy coatings. Exact identification requires streak, hardness, specific gravity, and ideally Raman or X-ray analysis.

Field identification & locations

Look for vivid blue-green crusts in fractures and cavities of weathered copper ores, often with malachite, azurite, cuprite, or limonite. Common localities include Arizona, New Mexico, Chile, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia.