Chrysocolla Rock Slab 491

Chrysocolla, as a name, actually derives from ancient Greek goldsmithing terms. Roughly translated the name means “gold glue” or “gold solder. The minerals can be heated, producing carbon dioxide gas and copper. The copper is what makes up the “gold glue” that gives the stone its name.

Chrysocolla is a secondary ore of copper that varies in color from dark blue to turquoise.  The majority of chrysocolla is mixed with other copper ores including malachite and azurite, creating stunning patterns and colors on the surface.  It is often used in silversmithing and goldsmithing in place of turquoise and is relatively easy to work and shape.  Generally, dark navy blue chrysocolla is too soft to be used in jewelry, while cyan, green, and blue-green chrysocolla can have a hardness approaching 6, similar to turquoise. 

Origin: Arizona, Rowley Mine

Dimensions: 3" x 1.5" and approximately 6.9 mm thick.  Weight = 51 grams. 

Shown wet.  Not polished. Known flaws are shown as white lines in the final picture frame.