Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is a vibrant blue-green copper mineral often confused with turquoise. When mixed with quartz, it's hard enough for jewelry.
Chrysocolla properties at a glance
| Type | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | (Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O |
| Mohs hardness | 2.5 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White to pale blue |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.2 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Blue-Green, Cyan, Turquoise Blue |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits when copper-bearing solutions react with silica.
Used since antiquity for jewelry and as a flux for soldering gold.
How to identify Chrysocolla
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Chrysocolla examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Where Chrysocolla is found
Chrysocolla is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Chrysocolla worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $25 |
| Premium specimen | $150+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Decorative objects
- Collector specimens
Interesting facts
- Name comes from Greek for 'gold' and 'glue' - used by ancient goldsmiths
- Cleopatra reportedly always carried chrysocolla
- Sometimes called 'Eilat Stone' in Israel
Care & safety
Treat Chrysocolla as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
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