Rare Chrysocolla with Calcite and Quartz Crystal Arizona USA Genuine Mineral

Description

Overview – Rare Chrysocolla with Calcite and Quartz from Arizona, USA

This listing showcases a rare and genuine Chrysocolla with Calcite and Quartz crystal specimen sourced from the mineral-rich regions of Arizona, USA, known worldwide for producing exceptional copper-associated minerals. The specimen photographed is the exact piece you will receive, selected for its striking colour contrasts, mineral associations, and natural crystal structure.

Every crystal comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its genuine geological origin.

This beautiful combination of minerals brings together the vivid blues of Chrysocolla, the clean crystalline geometry of Quartz, and the soft, translucent textures of Calcite. These three minerals occurring together is a visually dramatic and scientifically significant mineralogical association, prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Geological Background – Mineral Formation in Arizona

Arizona’s geology is dominated by extensive copper-bearing deposits, hydrothermal systems, and oxidised mineral zones. These environments provide perfect conditions for secondary copper minerals such as Chrysocolla to form. Within the upper sections of copper ore bodies, circulating groundwater interacts with pre-existing minerals, including malachite, azurite, and chalcopyrite, gradually replacing them with Chrysocolla and other colourful copper silicates.

Quartz and Calcite frequently form alongside Chrysocolla within open fractures, vugs, and oxidation zones. These environments allow silica-rich and calcium-rich fluids to precipitate crystals in successive mineralising stages. As a result, complex multi-mineral specimens like this one develop, each layer reflecting a different period of geological activity.

Mineralogy – Chrysocolla, Calcite, and Quartz

Chrysocolla (Copper Silicate Mineral)

Chrysocolla is a hydrated copper silicate well-known for its vibrant blue-to-blue-green colours.

• Chemical Composition: (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O
• Structure: Amorphous to microcrystalline
• Colour Variations: Sky blue, turquoise, teal, greenish-blue
• Typical Habits: Massive, botryoidal, crust-like coatings, or vein fillings
• Occurrence: Forms in the oxidation zones of copper-rich deposits

Chrysocolla’s vivid colour results from copper within the mineral structure, making it an excellent indicator of copper mineralisation.

Calcite (Calcium Carbonate)

Calcite contributes soft white, cream, or honey tones to the specimen.

• Chemical Composition: CaCO₃
• Crystal System: Trigonal
• Common Habits: Rhombohedral, scalenohedral, blocky crystals
• Calcite often forms later in the mineralising sequence, filling cavities and providing a striking contrast against blue Chrysocolla.

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide)

Quartz adds strength, transparency, and shimmer to the piece.

• Chemical Composition: SiO₂
• Crystal System: Hexagonal
• Habits: Points, clusters, drusy coatings, or massive formations
• Quartz often crystallises early in hydrothermal veins, acting as a structural foundation for later minerals.

Aesthetic Description – A Natural Mineral Masterpiece

This specimen exhibits a harmonious blend of textures and colours:

• Vibrant blue Chrysocolla providing bold colour saturation
• Glassy or drusy Quartz adding sparkle and structural definition
• Soft-toned Calcite crystals forming a contrasting accent
• Natural mineral intergrowths highlighting the geological story of multiple mineralising events

This interplay of colours—from deep copper blues to crystalline whites—creates a balanced and visually captivating display.

Origin Environment – Hydrothermal and Oxidation Zones

Arizona’s copper districts contain some of the most productive oxidised mineral zones on Earth. These areas are rich in colourful minerals formed through prolonged weathering, groundwater activity, and hydrothermal transformation. As mineral-rich solutions infuse cracks and voids, successive deposits of Quartz, Calcite, and Chrysocolla are laid down, producing rare specimens like this one.

Your Specimen

This rare Chrysocolla with Calcite and Quartz specimen was selected for its outstanding mineral contrast, natural aesthetic, and finely preserved crystal surfaces. The photographs provided show the exact specimen available, and full sizing is clearly displayed in the images.

Your purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming that the piece is a genuine natural mineral specimen sourced from Arizona, USA.