mineral

Native Copper

Native Copper (Cu)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Copper-red to reddish-brown (tarnishes to green or black); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 8.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Copper-red to reddish-brown (tarnishes to green or black)
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 3, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Copper-red to reddish-brown (tarnishes to green or black); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 8.9

Formation & geological history

Formed as a primary mineral from hydrothermal solutions in volcanic rocks or as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits. Many famous deposits date back to the Keweenawan age (approx. 1 billion years ago).

Uses & applications

Used widely in electrical wiring, plumbing, heat exchangers, and electronics due to its high conductivity. Also popular in jewelry, coinage, and as a highly sought-after mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Native copper is one of the few elements that occurs in nature in a directly usable metallic form. The largest single mass of native copper ever found was the 'Ontonagon Boulder' from Michigan, weighing over 3,700 pounds.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density, metallic luster, copper-red color on a fresh surface, and its malleability (it can be hammered without shattering). Commonly found in the Lake Superior region of Michigan, Arizona, and Chile.