By Chisom Ibemere
Conichalcite mineral was first discovered in Chile in 1890. The word “conichalcite” is derived from the Greek words “konis” (powder) and “chalix” (copper ore), due to its powder-blue color and copper content. It can be found basically in the oxidation zones of copper deposits and it has association with other copper minerals.
Conichalcite is found globally in many locations such as Chile, the United States, Mexico, China, and Zambia. It occurs as a secondary mineral in the upper zones of copper deposits, typically in the form of crusts or fuzzy aggregates on the surface of other minerals.
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Conichalcite is prized for its beautiful and attractive green blue colour and primarily used as a mineral specimen for collectors. It is also used occasionally as a minor copper ore, although its copper content is relatively low. It is sometimes used as a minor pigment in ceramics and as a filler in some industrial applications.
Conichalcite is a copper-containing mineral. It has a Mohs hardness of 4 making it relatively soft. It has a color range from a pale green to a vibrant blue-green. Conichalcite has a vitreous to sub-vitreous luster and typically occurs as small masses or crusts.
Conichalcite is a relatively common mineral whose value depends on its size, quality, and overall aesthetics. The value of conichalcite is primarily determined by its color and the quality of the crystal formations, with more vibrant green-blue specimens generally commanding higher prices.
