What Is Chrysocolla?

Chrysocolla is a deep blue-green copper mineral long associated with communication, self-expression and sharing knowledge. It rates 2 to 4 on the Mohs scale and is sold as mineral specimens, jewellery components and, like malachite, as cabochons and carvings. Here is its history, lore and use.

This captivating stone reminds us of the influence our words and actions have on others and the world around us. Thus, holding us accountable for our character.

The Physical Properties of Chrysocolla

The stone's vibrant blues and greens including its brown to black mottlings are primarily what makes chrysocolla unique from the rest. It has many shapes and sizes. You can find them as spheres, discs, or giant stalactites.

Chrysocolla is often mistaken for a crystal. However, a look at its chemical composition reveals that it's amorphous. Meaning, it's a solid with no crystalline structure. It has neither the exact shape, design, nor structure to qualify as a crystal.

It has a Mohs hardness rating of 2 to 4. Due to its striking colours and overall appeal, this carbonate copper stone is fashioned into necklaces, cabochons, pendants, earrings, bracelets, and many different ornamental pieces.

The History of Chrysocolla

The name chrysocolla derives from the Greek words chrysos (gold) and kola (glue). It was the philosopher and botanist Theophrastus who first used the name in 316 B.C. It's a reference to the soldering properties of the stone which ancient goldsmiths used to weld gold pieces together.

Renaissance painters also used ground chrysocolla as pigment for paint. Kings and emperors used the stone as a symbol of their elite status in the society. Today, the gorgeous stone is used in jewellery to create fashionable and affordable pieces.

Chrysocolla is often found in large copper deposits together with azurite and malachite. Known deposits of this stone are in Africa, Mexico, and the USA (specifically in Arizona).

The Lore of Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla has long been known as a stone of peace and reconciliation. Egyptians called it the wise stone as they believed chrysocolla increased wisdom during negotiations. People who wore or carried it delivered clever deals and resolutions.

It's also believed to disarm violent individuals, making them more sensitive and tolerant to people and situations. This is why Cleopatra wore chrysocolla as an amulet everywhere she went.

The Metaphysical Properties of Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla assists in revealing and sharing your knowledge to others. It may be as simple as offering insights or advice to a friend, teaching skills to a student, or by serving as an example. You can use this stone as a tool to effectively transfer knowledge to people.

It also serves as a talisman to musicians. Chrysocolla supplies confidence to those learning a new instrument and to musicians who play in public.

In crystal tradition, chrysocolla is also a stone for creative expression through writing, music, crafts, painting or acting, and a popular gift for women marking a new chapter, such as a first-time grandmother.

Chrysocolla is also traditionally kept in the home as a protective stone.

Find the chrysocolla stone you need