Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
triclinicuncommonSulfates
Chalcanthite
CuSO₄·5H₂O
This image displays a cluster of vibrant, deep blue chalcanthite crystals, exhibiting a vitreous luster and well-defined triclinic forms. The crystals appear to be prismatic or tabular, forming an attractive specimen.
Chalcanthite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
2.5Crystal System
triclinicLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
imperfect on {110} and {110}Fracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
2.28Colors
bright blue, sky-blue, greenish-blueTransparency
transparentType Locality
Bisbee, Warren District, Mule Mts, Cochise County, ArizonaMineral Group
SulfatesUses
collector, minor source of copper (historically)Associated Minerals
malachite, azurite, brochantite, gypsum, limoniteRarity
uncommonGeological Context
Chalcanthite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of copper sulfide deposits, particularly in arid or semi-arid regions. It is highly soluble in water and often found as efflorescences or crusts in mine workings.
