|
|
www.mineralgallery.co.za Minerals A-E |
|
|
Chrysocolla |
||
Name
Chrysocolla
Chemistry
CuSiO3 - nH2 O, Hydrated copper silicate
Uses
As a minor ore of copper and an ornamental stone
Color
The color is a deep green blue that can vary between green and blue in the same specimen
Hardness
2.5-4
Specific gravity
2-2.5
Crystals
Monoclinic
Accompanied by:
Occurs with copper minerals
Fracture
Luster
Greasy to vitreous
Cleavage
Streak
Pale green
Similar to:
Chrysocolla is a hydrated copper silicate and a minor ore of copper.
It usually forms bright bluish green cryptocrystalline, or amorphous, compact masses and crusts, sometimes with a rounded surface.
Chrysocolla is produced by alteration in the oxidized zone of copper ore deposits.
It is not a true mineral. It is composed of a complicated hydrated copper silicate.
Chrysocolla forms in the oxidation zones of copper rich ore bodies. As can be seen by the hardness of 2.5 - 4, pure Chrysocolla is too soft to be used in jewelery.
The forms that is called Chrysocolla is usually a silicate rich variety of this colorful stone.
