Chalcocite Vs. Chrysocolla

Chalcocite is a popular mineral composed of copper sulfide.^[1] Chrysocolla is also a popular gemstone and its chemical composition is copper silicate.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Chalcocite and Chrysocolla

For a quick recap of the differences chalcocite and chrysocolla:

• While both chalcocite and chrysocolla is orthorhombic, in terms of crystallography, chrysocolla can be monoclinic.
• For chemical formulas, chalcocite is Cu2S while chrysocolla is Cu2H2Si2O5(OH)4.
• In terms of luster, chalcocite is metallic while chrysocolla can be dull, greasy, vitreous or waxy.
• Chalcocite streaks gray or shiny while chrysocolla streaks blue, pale, pale blue, white or white pale.
• Chalcocite can be commonly gray while chrysocolla can be commonly blue or green.
• Chalcocite's specific gravity is higher than chrysocolla - chalcocite ranges from 5.5 to 5.8 and chrysocolla ranges from 2 to 2.4.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Chalcocite and Chrysocolla

The similarities of chalcocite and chrysocolla include:

• Chalcocite and chrysocolla both are opaque.
• Chalcocite's rarity is similar to chrysocolla.

Summary of Chalcocite

Chalcocite is a copper sulfide mineral that has a dark gray to black color and a metallic luster. Its chemical formula is Cu2S, and it has a hardness of 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale. Chalcocite is often found in hydrothermal veins and is associated with other copper sulfide minerals such as chalcopyrite and bornite. It is a secondary mineral that forms from the alteration of primary copper minerals.

Summary of Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla is a mineral that is typically found in copper deposits around the world. It is often confused with turquoise or malachite due to its similar appearance, but chrysocolla has a unique blue-green color that sets it apart. It is often found in botryoidal or stalactitic formations, and can also occur as a crust or coating on other minerals.

Table Comparison of Chalcocite vs Chrysocolla