Chrysocolla

Balance • Inner Harmony • Calming • Energizing • Self-Reflection • Clarity • Communication

Appearance

Green, blue, or brown in color, ranging from translucent to opaque, with a glassy to waxy luster.

Rarity

Fairly common.

Balance • Inner Harmony • Calming • Energizing • Self-Reflection • Clarity • Communication

Energetic properties

Chrysocolla promotes balance and inner harmony, while also offering both calming and energizing effects. It can be activating in times of fatigue, and soothing when you're feeling nervous or overwhelmed. The stone helps ease (emotional or romantic) heartbreak and feelings of guilt, and encourages self-reflection. It also supports creativity, mental clarity, and communication.

Spiritually, chrysocolla absorbs negative energy and has a cleansing, activating effect on the chakras. Physically, it is believed to benefit the liver, thyroid, lungs, kidneys, intestines, and throat. Additionally, it is said to be detoxifying, cooling, blood pressure-lowering, fever-reducing, and relaxing.

Suitable for children from around 6 years old.

Formation

Chrysocolla is a hydrated copper-aluminum silicate that forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits near the surface. It develops through the interaction of copper-rich fluids with surrounding rock and the oxidation of copper ore. It can also form through the precipitation of copper-bearing salts from water that has been in contact with copper ores.

Chrysocolla is often found alongside other copper minerals such as malachite, azurite, and cuprite.

Etymology

The name chrysocolla comes from the Greek words 'chrysos', meaning 'gold' and 'kolla', meaning 'glue'. In ancient times, it was used as a soldering agent for gold.

Care

Chrysocolla should not be exposed to water for extended periods. It is a soft stone, sensitive to scratching, wear, and corrosion; especially when exposed to water or acidic or alkaline solutions. The best way to clean chrysocolla is gently with a dry cloth, avoiding soaking in water or chemicals.

Cleansing and recharging can also be done using sage, incense ormoonlight.

Because chrysocolla is porous, it may discolor or become damaged if it comes into contact with harsh chemicals such as cleaning products or perfumes.

Origin

Can be found in various parts of the world, including the United States, Chile, Peru, Russia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Israel. In the U.S., it is found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Michigan. Chile’s main source is the Chuquicamata mine, and in Peru, it is mined in the Ica, Arequipa and Tacna regions.

Availability

Chrysocolla is not considered particularly rare, but it’s also not extremely common. It tends to be more niche in availability compared to other more commercialized crystals.