mineral

Polished blue copper mineral, likely chrysocolla or dyed howlite

Chrysocolla: hydrated copper phyllosilicate, approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; visual identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Bright blue with pale blue-white and dark matrix, waxy to vitreous luster, and a polished surface; chrysocolla is typically microcrystalline, Mohs 2.5–4, with no prominent cleavage and specific gravity about 2.0–2.4. The vivid, fairly uniform blue could also indicate dyed howlite or another treated stone.

Identified September 19, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished blue copper mineral, likely chrysocolla or dyed howlite
Scientific name: Chrysocolla: hydrated copper phyllosilicate, approximately (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O; visual identification is uncertain from the image
Category: mineral
Identified: September 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small polished treated stone; approximately $20–$100+ for attractive natural chrysocolla with distinctive matrix.

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

Chrysocolla forms as a secondary copper-mineral coating in oxidized zones of copper deposits, commonly alongside malachite, azurite, and quartz; formation is generally geologically young relative to host rocks. Howlite is a borate mineral formed in evaporite-related environments.

Uses & applications

Used as a cabochon, bead, ornamental stone, and collector specimen; copper-bearing chrysocolla has limited industrial importance. Dyed howlite is primarily decorative.

Geological facts

Natural chrysocolla commonly shows irregular blue-green color, brown or black host-matrix veining, and porous areas; intense cobalt-blue color may reflect dye or a composite material.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Peru, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Check for dye concentration in cracks, color transfer with acetone, low hardness, and copper-green streak; professional testing is needed for certainty.