By Chisom Ibemere
Shattuckite is a rare copper silicate mineral which was named after the Shattuck Mine in Arizona, United States, where it was first discovered in 1915. It is a relatively rare copper mineral and belongs to the silicate mineral group.
Shattuckite is typically found in association with other secondary copper minerals, such as malachite, azurite, and chrysocolla.
It is primarily found in oxidized copper deposits in regions like Arizona, Namibia, Congo, and Mexico.
Shattuckite is mainly used in jewelry making and as a collector’s gemstone due to its vibrant blue color and attractive patterns.
It is often cut into cabochons, beads, or carved into decorative items. Its rarity and visual appeal make it popular among gem enthusiasts.
Shattuckite is a hydrous copper silicate mineral. It usually forms in fibrous aggregates or as botryoidal masses. Shattuckite displays a striking blue color, ranging from light to dark, and can also exhibit variations of green and brown.
It has a vitreous to silky luster and a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones.
Shattuckite is considered a rare and collectible gemstone due to its limited occurrence and unique blue coloration.
The value of shattuckite can vary depending on factors such as color, clarity, size, and cut.
High-quality shattuckite specimens with intense blue coloration and minimal impurities can command higher prices in the gemstone market.
However, it is important to note that the market for shattuckite is relatively niche, and its global value is not as significant as that of more widely recognized gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.