Chrysocolla is not Turquoise
It is noteworthy that numerous individuals wearing Chrysocolla jewelry often mistakenly believe they possess Turquoise. Despite both being copper minerals with similar appearances, they are distinct. From a scientific perspective, Turquoise is characterized as a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum, whereas Chrysocolla is identified as hydrated copper silicate. Although the appearance of these materials may seem alike, a discerning eye can readily distinguish between them.
Turquoise Characteristics
Turquoise and Chrysocolla, although similar in appearance, exhibit distinct differences that set them apart. A key differentiator lies in their hardness, with pure Turquoise being considerably harder than pure Chrysocolla, despite both being relatively soft. Turquoise is renowned for its vibrant sky blue or robin’s egg blue hue, yet it also occurs in various shades of green.
Notably, the predominant blue coloration belies the existence of hundreds of unique Turquoise varieties, each possessing its own distinct characteristics. One immediately discernible difference is the presence of “matrix,” although some varieties exhibit little to no matrix. Matrix refers to the host rock or impurities within the Turquoise, often facilitating differentiation between varieties. The presence of matrix, coupled with rarity, can substantially increase the value of a Turquoise piece.
Chrysocolla Characteristics
In its purest form, Chrysocolla is excessively soft and brittle for use as a gemstone material. However, when combined with other minerals, it yields a stone that is not only sufficiently hard for jewelry applications but also exhibits distinctive and colorful inclusions. Notably, Chrysocolla is often found in conjunction with minerals such as Malachite, Tenorite, Cuprite, and Azurite, with Malachite being the most prevalent associate mineral.
Chrysocolla can occur in both opaque and translucent forms, the latter being particularly prized and sought after. Although traditionally considered less valuable than turquoise, Chrysocolla’s popularity has surged in recent years, resulting in a significant increase in the price of high-quality specimens. The most coveted varieties of Chrysocolla include Gem Silica Chrysocolla, Druzy Chrysocolla, Apache Chrysocolla, Sonoran Sunrise Chrysocolla, and Parrot Wing Chrysocolla.
Gem Silica
Gem Silica is a highly prized and rare form of Chrysocolla, distinguished by its vibrant blue hue and exceptional hardness. This Chalcedony-based stone, infused with Chrysocolla, exhibits striking translucency and a Mohs hardness rating of 7, surpassing Turquoise in durability. Comparable gemstones, such as Amethyst and Citrine, share the same Mohs hardness rating.
Top-grade Gem Silica is characterized by optimal translucency, uniform color saturation, and the absence of inclusions or blemishes. Consequently, high-quality Gem Silica can command prices exceeding $200 per carat. Due to the risk of counterfeit Gem Silica, often created by staining clear agate blue, prospective buyers must exercise caution.
