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)
amorphousuncommonSilicates
Chrysocolla
(Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O
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.
Chrysocolla Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
2.5Crystal System
amorphousLuster
vitreousStreak Color
white to light blue-greenCleavage
noneFracture
conchoidal to unevenSpecific Gravity
1.9Colors
blue, blue-green, green, turquoiseTransparency
translucent to opaqueType Locality
Manto Tres Gracias Mine, Diego de Almagro, Chañaral Province, Atacama Region, ChileMineral Group
SilicatesUses
jewelry, ornamental stone, minor copper oreAssociated Minerals
quartz, malachite, azurite, cupriteRarity
uncommonGeological 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.
