mineral

Polished cuprite–chrysocolla copper ore

Cuprite (Cu₂O) with chrysocolla (hydrated copper silicate) and likely native copper/malachite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 3.5–4 for cuprite and 2–4 for chrysocolla; earthy red-orange, blue-green, and brown colors with a polished vitreous-to-waxy luster. Typically massive and opaque, lacking visible cleavage; density commonly about 3.5–5.8 g/cm³ depending on composition.

Identified September 17, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished cuprite–chrysocolla copper ore
Scientific name: Cuprite (Cu₂O) with chrysocolla (hydrated copper silicate) and likely native copper/malachite
Category: mineral
Identified: September 17, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a small polished common specimen; $50–$200+ for larger, vividly patterned, provenance-documented material.

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

A secondary copper-ore assemblage formed by oxidation and weathering of sulfide copper deposits, generally in near-surface veins and cavities. It is geologically younger than the host deposit and may form from Paleozoic to modern supergene alteration zones.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a lapidary material, cabochon, and collector specimen; it is not generally valuable as copper ore in small polished pieces.

Geological facts

The vivid blue-green chrysocolla contrasting with red cuprite is characteristic of copper-rich oxidation zones. The specimen appears tumbled or polished, so diagnostic crystal forms are obscured.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Mexico, Namibia, and Australia. Confirm with streak, hardness, density, and copper-mineral testing; exact identification requires magnification or analytical testing.