What's That Rock?Chrysocolla
A soft blue-green copper mineral often found with malachite and azurite. It can be hard when mixed with quartz.
Safety
Contains copper. Avoid breathing dust from raw pieces.
How to identify Chrysocolla
- Blue-green, smooth, often a bit cloudy
- Soft unless mixed with quartz
- Often forms crusts or thin layers
Often confused with
Is Chrysocolla valuable?
Inexpensive; gem silica costs much more.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$10–100each
Cut gemstone$2–30per carat
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Color: vivid blue-green is best
- Hardness: pure chrysocolla is soft; material that is naturally mixed with quartz ('gem silica') is hard and far more valuable
- Gem silica: translucent, deep blue gem silica cabochons can cost hundreds of dollars
- Stabilization: treated stone is common and cheaper than natural
Uses
- Copper ore, beads, cabochons
Care
Soft and can be damaged by acids and moisture.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026