Aurichalcite
| Colour | Blue, Green |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 2 |
| Lustre | Pearly, silky |
| Streak | Light blue |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Transparency | Transparent |
| Cleavage | {010} and {100} Perfect |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Chemical formula | {{chem2|(Zn,Cu)5[(OH)3CO3]2}} |
| Specific gravity | 3.96 |
What is Aurichalcite?
Aurichalcite is a carbonate mineral, usually found as a secondary mineral in copper and zinc deposits. Its chemical formula is (Zn,Cu)5(CO3)2(OH)6. The zinc to copper ratio is about 5:4. Copper (Cu2+) gives aurichalcite its green-blue colors.
How to identify Aurichalcite
- Lustre: Pearly, silky.
- Hardness: Mohs 2 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: Light blue.
- Habit: Monoclinic crystal system.
Aurichalcite in different forms
Stones often confused with Aurichalcite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Aurichalcite?
Aurichalcite is Mohs 2 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Aurichalcite?
Aurichalcite is typically blue, green (Pale green, greenish blue, light blue; colorless to pale blue, pale green in transmitted light).