Three chrysocolla cabochons in various shapes: nr.18 (17×14×7 mm), nr.19 (20×14×6 mm), nr.26 (18×17×5 mm). Intense blue-green with characteristic quartz veins. Stock acquired from a wholesale lapidary market.
Item details
| Mineral |
Chrysocolla ((Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O) |
| Dimensions |
nr.18: 17×14×7 mm · nr.19: 20×14×6 mm · nr.26: 18×17×5 mm (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and back |
Varied shapes (oval / freeform), flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
2.5–3.5 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting; not suitable for everyday rings |
| Origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market (Peru / D.R. Congo) |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Item type |
Unique piece — each number is unrepeatable |
This specific piece
The blue-green color of chrysocolla comes from the concentration of copper in its amorphous structure — the same element that colors malachite and turquoise enamel. The hue varies from sky blue to dark turquoise depending on the extraction area and the presence of quartz or chalcedony in the rock.
All three numbers have dimensions of 17-20 mm: an ideal size for solitaire pendants and large hoop earrings. The low profile of 5-7 mm reduces the weight of the finished jewelry without sacrificing the visual impact of the color.
For what setting it works
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Bezel setting (925 silver) — a hardness of 2.5–3.5 Mohs requires a bezel that covers 1–1.5 mm of the perimeter edge to protect the stone from lateral impacts.
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Pendants and earrings — 17-20 mm formats are the canonical size for moderately sized pendants. The low hardness advises against use in everyday rings.
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Wire wrap — possible with 22-20 AWG copper or silver wire; soft wrapping prevents pressure on the stone.
Chrysocolla in lapidary tradition
The Greeks called this mineral chrysos kolla ("gold glue") because jewelers used it as a flux for soldering metal. Its presence in copper deposits made it known since Ancient Egypt, where it was used in decorations and amulets. In crystal tradition, chrysocolla is associated with calm and creative expression — the artisan's stone that listens before speaking.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine chrysocolla
Natural chrysocolla is amorphous and soft: a steel key (Mohs 5.5) easily scratches it, which distinguishes it from "chrysocolla gem" (quartz-impregnated chrysocolla, Mohs 6-7). The blue-green color without plastic sheen and the slightly matte texture in areas are markers of authenticity against glass or resin imitations.
Frequently asked questions
Is it natural or dyed chrysocolla?
No detectable treatment. The blue-green color is structural, a result of copper concentration. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Can I use it in a ring?
We do not recommend everyday use in rings. Its hardness of 2.5–3.5 Mohs makes it vulnerable to scratches from household objects. For pendants and earrings with a closed bezel, it is perfectly suitable.
Are the dimensions exact?
Each number has its indicated nominal dimensions. As it is uncalibrated industrial lapidary stock, there may be a variation of ±0.5 mm.
What makes each number unique?
The pattern of veins and blue-green distribution is unrepeatable. Once a piece is sold, that pattern will not be available again.
How to care for it?
Avoid prolonged water, oils, and detergents — chrysocolla is porous. Clean with a soft, dry cloth. More on jewelry care.
See also: chrysocolla properties · cabochon collection.
