CHRYSOCOLLA MALACHITE - Inspiration Mine, Gila County, Arizona

Chrysocolla forms in the oxidation zones of copper rich ore bodies. This splendid example comes from the long defunct Inspiration Mine of Miami, Arizona and was collected many decades ago.

The actual name Chrysocolla derives from Greek "chrysos" - gold and "'kolla" - glue, referring to its use as a flux in soldering gold (Theophrastus.)

Chrysocolla is often found in a matrix of quartz, in which case the optical and physical properties may be closer to those of quartz. This particular specimen undercuts slightly but remains sturdy in terms of Moh's hardness and of course contains amorphous Silica and H2O. But, what really stands out on this particular cab is the tiny specs of Malachite interspersed  in the Silicate fortification. Blue on the front. Green on the back.

Standard radius dome. Vitreous polish front and back.

This will be a drop dead gorgeous focal piece in your next metalsmithing or wire wrap project. It is indeed quite the cool heirloom collectible to brag about as well!

Length – 35 mm

Width - 15 mm

Depth – 5.82 mm

Weight - 43 Carats

This cabochon was photographed indoors, dry, under full spectrum LED and outdoors.

Hand crafted by Lexx. Custom orders are always welcome!

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