Eight rectangular chrysocolla cabochons in 12 to 21 mm sizes: no. 52 (15×14×6), no. 54 (18×14×5), no. 55 (17×11×6), no. 60 (12×11×7), no. 62 (15×14×5), no. 64 (15×14×8), no. 65 (18×15×6), no. 66 (21×17×4 mm). Intense blue-green. Stock acquired from a wholesale lapidary market.
Item details
| Mineral |
Chrysocolla ((Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O) |
| Dimensions |
12-21 mm on the major axis, 8 individual sizes (see description) |
| Shape and back |
Rectangular, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
2.5–3.5 Mohs — we recommend closed bezel settings; not suitable for everyday rings |
| Origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market (Peru / D.R. Congo) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item type |
Unique piece — each number is unrepeatable |
This specific piece
The rectangular shape in chrysocolla is unusual in the market: most available lots are ovals or freeforms. Straight cutting requires greater attention from the lapidary to maintain defined corners without the soft stone chipping during polishing.
The 8 numbers in this lot cover a compact range of 12 to 21 mm, allowing you to select the format that best fits the jeweler's setting. The blue-green varies from piece to piece depending on the local copper concentration in the parent rock.
What kind of mounting it works for
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Rectangular bezel setting (925 silver) — the construction of a straight bezel for chrysocolla requires well-reinforced corners; the mineral's low hardness makes unprotected corners the most vulnerable point.
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Geometric pendants — the rectangular shape fits straight-line designs and minimalist compositions where the mineral's color is the protagonist.
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Geometric wire wrap — possible with 22-20 AWG rectangular wrapping techniques that maintain visible geometry.
Chrysocolla in lapidary tradition
The Greeks called this mineral chrysos kolla ("gold glue") because jewelers used it as a flux to solder metal. The Mayans and Aztecs collected it from copper outcrops in Mesoamerica, and Peruvian lapidaries have worked with it since before the European arrival. In crystal tradition, chrysocolla is associated with clear communication and artistic expression.
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 can easily scratch it. The blue-green color without plastic sheen and the possible presence of lighter quartz or chalcedony veins are signs of authenticity. "Chrysocolla gem" (chrysocolla impregnated with quartz) is significantly harder (Mohs 6-7) and more scratch-resistant.
Frequently asked questions
Is it natural or dyed chrysocolla?
No detectable treatment. The blue-green color is structural. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Is it suitable for rings?
We do not recommend use in everyday rings. Its 2.5–3.5 Mohs hardness makes it vulnerable to scratches from household objects. For pendants and earrings with closed bezels, it is the appropriate option.
Are the dimensions exact?
Each number has nominal dimensions indicated (12-21 mm on the major axis). As it is uncalibrated industrial lapidary stock, there may be a variation of ±0.5 mm.
What differentiates the rectangular shape from the oval?
The rectangular shape requires more precision in bezel construction and produces a more contemporary-looking piece of jewelry. It is also rarer in chrysocolla, making it visually distinctive.
How to care for it?
Avoid prolonged water exposure and oils — chrysocolla is porous. Clean with a soft, dry cloth. More information on jewelry care.
See also: chrysocolla properties · cabochon collection.
