mineral

Native copper (probable copper-rich mineral specimen)

Copper, Cu; possibly mixed with cuprite, malachite, and iron-oxide alteration minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Irregular metallic reddish-brown/copper-colored mass with dark oxidation and green-blue patches. Native copper has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, metallic luster, cubic crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 8.9; the apparent porous texture may reflect corrosion or matrix loss.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Native copper (probable copper-rich mineral specimen)
Scientific name: Copper, Cu; possibly mixed with cuprite, malachite, and iron-oxide alteration minerals
Category: mineral
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small, common weathered piece; $50–$200+ if verified natural native copper with attractive crystals or associated minerals.

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

Likely formed by hydrothermal or supergene enrichment in an oxidized copper deposit; surface alteration can produce cuprite and malachite. Exact age cannot be determined visually. The Yemen region near 15.4°N, 44.2°E has volcanic and mineralized terranes, making copper-bearing material plausible.

Uses & applications

Copper is used in electrical wiring, plumbing, alloys, and ornaments; attractive native-copper specimens are collected, though this piece appears heavily weathered.

Geological facts

Copper commonly develops green patina from malachite or related carbonates. A fresh surface should be copper-red and metallic; copper is highly malleable rather than brittle.

Field identification & locations

Field tests: streak is reddish-copper, conductivity is high, and a steel knife may scratch it; it is nonmagnetic. Confirm with hardness, streak, and preferably chemical/XRF testing, since slag or copper-rich industrial metal is possible.