Chrysocolla
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameChrysocolla
Chemical Formula(Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemamorphous
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite to light blue-green
Cleavagenone
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity1.9
Colorsblue, blue-green, green, turquoise
Transparencytranslucent to opaque
Type LocalityManto Tres Gracias Mine, Diego de Almagro, Chañaral Province, Atacama Region, Chile
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, minor copper ore
Associated Mineralsquartz, malachite, azurite, cuprite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features vibrant blue-green chrysocolla exhibiting a botryoidal habit, forming a druzy coating over a matrix, likely quartz, creating a visually striking and textured piece.
Geological Context
Chrysocolla is a secondary copper mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits, typically in arid environments. It precipitates from copper-rich solutions interacting with silica.
