mineral

Iron-rich copper-bearing rock, possibly cuprite-bearing sandstone or copper ore

Likely limonite/goethite with copper oxides; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to reddish-brown, earthy to submetallic luster, massive and fine-grained, with a pale blue-green metallic-looking patch suggestive of secondary copper minerals. Estimated hardness 3–5.5 and specific gravity roughly 3–4.5, depending on composition.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich copper-bearing rock, possibly cuprite-bearing sandstone or copper ore
Scientific name: Likely limonite/goethite with copper oxides; exact identification requires testing
Category: mineral
Identified: August 23, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$150+ if the blue-green copper mineralization is attractive, confirmed, and from a notable locality.

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

Probably formed by oxidation and weathering of a copper-bearing sulfide deposit, producing iron oxides and copper carbonates/oxides near the surface; age depends on its host deposit. The rounded shape indicates abrasion or natural transport.

Uses & applications

Primarily a mineral specimen or teaching/collecting sample; copper-rich material may be associated with copper mining, but this piece is unlikely to have commercial ore value without assay.

Geological facts

The blue-green area could be chrysocolla, brochantite, or azurite, while the dark brown matrix may be goethite, limonite, or manganese oxide. A streak test, hardness test, and copper-mineral analysis would substantially improve identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in oxidized copper zones worldwide, including Arizona, New Mexico, Chile, Australia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Look for blue-green coatings, reddish iron staining, and a brown-to-yellow streak; avoid relying on color alone.