mineral

Native Copper with Malachite/Oxide Coating

Native Copper (Cu)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0; Color: Coppery red (masked by reddish-brown oxide and earthy crust); Luster: Metallic (when scratched), earthy (exterior); Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 8.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Coppery red (masked by reddish-brown oxide and earthy crust)
Luster: Metallic (when scratched), earthy (exterior)

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the hydrothermal alteration of basaltic lavas or as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits. Often found in Precambrian volcanic rocks.

Uses & applications

Historical source of industrial copper; today primarily a collector's specimen for mineralogists and hobbyists.

Geological facts

This specimen appears to be a nugget of native copper heavily coated in iron oxides and secondary minerals. Native copper was the first metal used by humans as far back as 8,000 BCE.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its high density (feels very heavy for its size) and malleability. If scratched with a steel file, it will reveal a bright metallic copper-colored interior. Commonly found in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula and Arizona.

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