mineral
Peacock Ore
Bornite (Cu5FeS4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 3 on Mohs scale, metallic luster, bronze-brown color that rapidly tarnishes to iridescent blue, purple, and green. Crystals are rare, usually massive or granular with no distinct cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness 3 on Mohs scale, metallic luster, bronze-brown color that rapidly tarnishes to iridescent blue, purple, and green. Crystals are rare, usually massive or granular with no distinct cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic zones, often associated with other copper sulfides like chalcopyrite.
Uses & applications
Primarily mined as a minor ore of copper, and highly sought after by mineral collectors for its vibrant tarnish.
Geological facts
The brilliant iridescent colors are caused by a thin layer of copper oxide or iron oxide that forms on the surface upon air exposure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive peacock-like tarnish, low hardness, and association with other copper minerals. Found globally in major copper-mining regions.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous