mineral

Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla (Cu2-xAlx(H2-xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O)

Hardness: 2.5–3.5 (often harder when silicified), Color: Cyan/Light Green/Blue with brown or black matrix, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (often amorphous/massive), Specific Gravity: 2.0–2.4

Hardness: 2

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore bodies. It occurs as a secondary mineral resulting from the leaching of copper minerals by siliceous water. Most deposits are associated with arid climates.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry as a gemstone and for ornamental carvings. It is also an aesthetic collector's mineral and historically was used as an minor ore of copper.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referring to its use as a flux for soldering gold in ancient times. It has been used by civilizations since antiquity, including Ancient Egypt.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive blue-green color and its tendency to stick to the tongue if licked (due to its porous nature). Found in copper-rich regions like Arizona (USA), Chile, Peru, and Congo.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral