Chrysocolla gets its name from the Greek words “chryso” and “colla,” which means ‘gold’ and ‘glue’ respectively.  It is a copper stone and can be found in colors ranging from light green to deep blue and teal. Chrysocolla is often associated with malachite and azurite, while some chrysocolla contains cuprite. Due to the occurrence of chrysocolla in large sizes, rich blue and green shades, and intricate patterns, it is steadily gaining popularity and being used to make interesting modern jewelry items such as wire-wrapped pendants .

Here is a buying guide that will tell you everything about chrysocolla and how to identify a real one.

 

 

What is chrysocolla and how is it formed?

 

Chrysocolla is a mineral with sharp color contrasts that can vary from the brightest shade of blue and green caused by the presence of copper. It is found as crusts or masses in the upper parts of copper ore veins where copper minerals have been altered by water containing dissolved silica.  Chrysocolla can be coated by a drusy layer of glossy clear quartz. Due to the varying elements and water content, the chemical formula for chrysocolla cannot be clearly defined. Most forms of chrysocolla are considered to be amorphous, but when it is found as microcrystals, the chemical formula is more identifiable.

Its chemical formula consists of oxygen, copper, silica, aluminum and hydrogen and is called a copper silicate. During formation, these elements are combined to form a secondary mineral of copper, meaning chrysocolla is formed when copper minerals are changed by other chemicals. This occurs when water containing carbon dioxide seeps through the copper and leeches other chemicals with it until they gather in cracks and harden.

 

Where is chrysocolla found?

 

Chrysocolla is usually found in copper deposits in arid regions and is found worldwide. The most outstanding chrysocolla has come from many of the classic Arizona copper mines. High-quality chrysocolla also comes from Kolwezi, Katanga, and Congo. Mines in Eilat, Israel, are known to produce chrysocolla combined with copper minerals. Another excellent source of chrysocolla pseudomorphs after azurite comes from the Whim Creek Copper Mine, Whim Creek, Western Australia. Several deposits are also found within Chañaral Province in the Atacama region, Chile.

 

 

What are the varieties of Chrysocolla?

 

There are four varieties of Chrysocolla, and they are –

• Chrysocolla Chalcedony: This vivid greenish-blue material, also known as gem silica, is difficult to come by. High-quality specimens are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry designers. It is also known by the names “chrysocolla chalcedony” and “gem silica chrysocolla.” It displays an intense color due to the presence of copper salts that enter the crystal lattice of colorless chalcedony.
• Eilat Stone: This greenish-blue version of chrysocolla has naturally added turquoise and malachite. It is mined in southern Israel.
• Stellarite: It is a light blue gemstone consisting of chrysocolla and quartz, also known as chrysocolla quartz.
• Parrot Wing: This variant is a mix of chrysocolla and jasper and has a greenish-brown color. 

 

The 4 C’s of Chrysocolla Stone

 

Color :

 

Chrysocolla is found in colors that range from light green to deep blue and owes its color to the presence of copper. The presence of other impurities causes vibrant patterns within the stone appearing as spots, streaks, veins, and other patterns. These patches, streaks, or veins can be yellow, red, black, or brown.

 

Clarity : 

Since it is an opaque stone, the surface of chrysocolla stone should become smooth after polishing, and any surface blemishes should be absent. Imperfections like rough spots, nicks, and chips will lower the value of a gem, and these stones take on a glossy luster after polishing.

 

Cut:

Chrysocolla is best cut as a cabochon; shapes like oval, round, cushion, and pear are also popular since they are the best ways to conserve material. Ovals are more abundant, as this shape is preferred for creating stunning looks while cutting expenses.

 

Carat:

Specimens ranging from just around one carat, up to 20 carats in weight, can be easily found, but the fragile nature of chrysocolla implies that larger stones are challenging and risky, due to the risk of breakage. Hence, larger stones usually sell for a slightly higher price than smaller gems.

 

Chrysocolla – Metaphysical properties, uses, and benefits

 

Chrysocolla is known to be a teaching stone that encourages us to put forth our most valuable knowledge so others can benefit from it. This can be seen in the form of speaking kindly to a friend or offering advice like a teacher to a student. It is the most prominent stone of communication; its very essence is believed to be devoted to expression, empowerment, and teaching. Its unique turquoise-blue color spreads a sense of serenity that discharges negative energies. It calms the user down, allows truth and inner wisdom to come into view, encourages compassion, and strengthens the user’s character.

 

What chakra is chrysocolla linked to?

 

The predominantly blue and green colors of chrysocolla point towards influence on the throat chakra, and this is backed up by other culture’s connection between chrysocolla and communication. Chrysocolla can assist in unblocking your throat chakra when you lie down with the gemstone placed at the base of your throat and regulate your breathing. Sometimes just by wearing a chrysocolla pendant or necklace throughout the day , you can realign your throat chakra.

 

 

What are the health benefits of chrysocolla stone?

 

It is believed that chrysocolla has the following health benefits –

• On a physical level, it is believed to provide relief from sore throats, thyroid issues, laryngitis and any other problems with the larynx
• High blood pressure and blood circulation complications may be alleviated with the help of this stone
• Menopause, PMS, childbirth, and nervous disorders are also believed to decrease from the presence of chrysocolla

*Please note: We do not recommend this information as a substitute for medical health conditions. Visit a healthcare professional before starting any alternative treatments.

 

Chrysocolla Treatments:

 

Chrysocolla usually does not require any form of treatment other than the usual cutting and polishing that gemstones get. Since chrysocolla can be very brittle (rated 2 - 3 on Mohs scale) and tends to be crumbly when it is of pure grade, other materials like quartz are added to strengthen it. If the gemstone is naturally found to be all blue or green, it can be very difficult to cut and polish.

 

 

How to clean chrysocolla?

 

Due to the wide range of hardness this gemstone can be found in, a coin could scratch stones with a hardness of 2 Mohs, while other specimens containing quartz could have a hardness of 7 Mohs. If you do not know the composition of your stone, make sure you clean and store it with care. Avoid mechanical cleaning methods like steam or ultrasonic processes; prefer a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water for cleaning purposes. Chrysocollas should be stored separately from other stones, just like opals and pearls, to avoid any scratches.

 

Where should you purchase chrysocolla?

 

At GemsforJewels, we offer chrysocolla gemstone in many beautiful sizes. These stones can be purchased as strands; there are many varieties to choose from. They are also available in exciting shapes to pick from like cube, heart, pear, and rondelles. Chrysocolla is perfect for Bohemian style jewelry and will be loved by your customers.