mineral

Chrysocolla

Hydrated copper silicates (Cu, Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cyan, turquoise-blue to blue-green; Luster: Vitreous to dull/earthy; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (usually amorphous); Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4

Hardness: 2
Color: Cyan, turquoise-blue to blue-green
Luster: Vitreous to dull/earthy

Identified April 2, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cyan, turquoise-blue to blue-green; Luster: Vitreous to dull/earthy; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (usually amorphous); Specific Gravity: 2.0-2.4

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits where copper-bearing solutions react with silica; often found alongside malachite, azurite, and quartz.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a minor ore of copper, as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads), and as a highly sought-after mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Chrysocolla often forms pseudomorphs after other minerals like malachite or azurite. It has been used since ancient times, and its name is derived from the Greek words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'kolla' (glue), referring to its use as a soldering material for gold.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its striking blue-green color and its tendency to stick to the tongue due to its porous nature. Commonly found in arid copper-mining regions like Arizona (USA), Chile, and the DRC.

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