mineral

Weathered copper-bearing rock, likely chrysocolla/azurite-malachite ore

Copper carbonate–silicate mineral assemblage; probable malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2) with chrysocolla (Cu2−xAlx(H2−xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O), possibly limonite and azurite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green to brown, earthy and strongly weathered, with dull to waxy luster; likely massive rather than crystalline. Malachite hardness is 3.5–4 Mohs, chrysocolla 2.5–3.5, and specific gravity commonly ~2.0–4.0 depending on matrix.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered copper-bearing rock, likely chrysocolla/azurite-malachite ore
Scientific name: Copper carbonate–silicate mineral assemblage; probable malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2) with chrysocolla (Cu2−xAlx(H2−xSi2O5)(OH)4·nH2O), possibly limonite and azurite
Category: mineral
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common rough specimen; $50–$200+ for large, vividly colored, well-identified 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

Forms in the oxidized, near-surface zones of copper ore deposits when groundwater alters primary copper sulfides; commonly Cenozoic to Precambrian in age depending on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Used as a copper ore when sufficiently concentrated, and as ornamental or lapidary material when colorful and stable; rough examples have modest collector value.

Geological facts

The vivid blue-green coloration is characteristic of hydrated copper minerals, but the image alone cannot reliably distinguish chrysocolla from malachite, azurite, or copper-stained host rock.

Field identification & locations

Look for green-blue color, earthy coatings, brown iron-oxide matrix, and possible green streak; avoid acid or prolonged water testing, and do not ingest dust. Common worldwide in arid copper districts, including Arizona, Nevada, Chile, Mexico, Australia, and Africa.