The chemical formula of the chrysocolle evolved. Many prefer a less restrictive formula: CuSiO3.nH2O.
Its blue color is due to the copper.
The chrysocolle was mentioned for the first time by the Greek philosopher Théophraste (315 before JC).
"Chrysocolle" is a former term indicating diverse materials being of use to the preparation of the gold, but which indicates more today than a single mineral, a silicate of brass hydroxide.
It is a silicate hydrated by copper. it forms by change of brass deposits(fields) in dry climate.
The chrysocolle is very soft, but is sometimes associated with the silica. We preserve it the name of Chrysocolle or Chrysocolle-silice. The chrysocolle gives this characteristic blue color.
The main difference between the chrysocolle and the silica lies in their hardness, 2.5 - 4.0 for the chrysocolle and 7 for the silica. The hardness of the "chrysocolle-silica" will depend on the content in silica.
When the chrysocolle is so associated with the silica, he can be used in jewelry. He was used in fineries dating 200 before JC, in pre-inca civilization.
The American mine " Inspiration Mines ", in Arizona, supplies the most beautiful specimens of " quality gemstone ". We find the chrysocolle often associated with the malachite, but also in a blue shape translucent "gemstone", associated with the silica there. it is then cut in cabochons. The production is very low and this gemstone is really rare.
Chrysocolle, associated with the malachite, the turquoise and sometimes in more in the Azurite, is called the stone " Eilat ". We find her(it) in the south region of Israel.
Le Chrysocolle associé à la Cuprite, donne aussi de très belles pierres taillées en cabochons, associant les couleurs rouge, bleu, vert.
To know more about Chrysocolle, see Mindat.org->
