mineral

Copper-bearing sulfide ore, likely chalcopyrite with iron oxides

Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂), possibly associated with bornite (Cu₅FeS₄), pyrite, and limonite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brassy gray-gold metallic patches with iridescent blue-green tarnish and rusty brown oxidation; likely hardness 3.5–4 (chalcopyrite), metallic luster, massive/granular texture, no obvious cleavage, and specific gravity about 4.1–4.3.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Copper-bearing sulfide ore, likely chalcopyrite with iron oxides
Scientific name: Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂), possibly associated with bornite (Cu₅FeS₄), pyrite, and limonite/goethite
Category: mineral
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$30 for a common rough specimen; $30–$150+ for large pieces with vivid natural iridescence and documented provenance.

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 hydrothermal veins or sulfide-rich igneous systems when copper-iron sulfide minerals crystallized from hot fluids; oxidation later produced the red-brown iron oxides and blue-green copper alteration. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily an important copper ore; specimens with vivid iridescent tarnish are collected and sometimes sold as “peacock ore,” though artificially treated material is common.

Geological facts

The blue, purple, and green surface colors are thin tarnish films rather than the mineral’s true internal color. Copper sulfides can leave dark streaks and may develop bright green secondary minerals during weathering.

Field identification & locations

Look for metallic heft, brassy grains, rusty weathering, and blue-green tarnish; a streak test, hardness test, and chemical analysis distinguish it from similarly colored rocks. Common in copper districts worldwide, including Arizona, Montana, Peru, Chile, and Canada.