Sonora Sunrise Mineral Specimen

CHRYSOCOLLA

HISTORY, NAME, LOCALITIES:  Chrysocolla was first described by the Greek naturalist Theophrastus in 315 B.C.  Its name stems from the Greek chrysos, meaning “gold,” and kolla, or “glue,” and refers to a similar-appearing material used to solder gold.  Chrysocolla is uncommon and has few collecting localities.  Notable sources are in Democratic Republic of Congo, England, Mexico, Russia, Chile, and the United States (Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Pennsylvania).

MINERALOGY, PROPERTIES, OCCURRENCE: Chrysocolla [basic hydrous copper aluminum acid silicate, (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O] crystallizes in the orthorhombic system in massive, nodular, or botryoidal form.  Crystals are rare.  It has a variable Mohs hardness of 2.5-3.5, no cleavage, and a specific gravity of 2.0-2.2.  It is translucent to opaque, has a vitreous-to-dull luster, and colors that range from blue and bluish-green to  green.  Chrysocolla is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper-rich deposits as vug and vein fillings and crusts, usually in botryoidal form and in association with azurite and malachite.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES, LORE, USES: In medieval time, physicians prescribed chrysocolla to treat ailments of the lungs and back.  Modern metaphysical practitioners believe that chrysocolla is a stone of peace that soothes and calms in times of stress, draws off negative energies, and brings understanding to discordant relationships.  As a minor gemstone, chrysocolla is fashioned into cabochons, beads, and ornamental objects.

COLLECTORS’ INFORMATION: Chrysocolla is collected for its color, rarity, and association with other colorful oxidized-copper minerals such as azurite.