Chrysocolla is a hydrous copper silicate. The color range is green, blue, and blue/green often with brown and black areas caused by impurities. It is often found in combination with other copper-based crystals such as Azurite, Malachite, and Cuprite.
For the most part, Chrysocolla comes in a bluish-green color. Generally speaking, the mineral can vary from very blue to very green in one piece of stone. It is often confused as turquoise and sometimes even sold to unsuspecting buyers as the more valuable turquoise. Chrysocolla can also come in the form of Agatized Chrysocolla; this is when it is mixed with quartz, a mineral that is sometimes associated with it. When mixed it creates rings or spheres that are hard and can be polished to make beautiful ornamental jewelry.
Chrysocolla comes in large sizes and generally forms as large crusts, deep in veins or stalactites. It comes in many shapes, but since it is very soft and fragile it is not able to be cut and used as other minerals.
Chrysocolla has a very dull luster and to the touch can seem waxy. It looks very earthy and must be polished to get the best possible shine, which in most cases is subpar to other minerals. The mineral is transparent to opaque which does make it more compelling. It is not that rare and can be found in many parts of the world including the Czech Republic, the Congo, Israel, Chili, Cornwall England, and even in many states in the USA including Pennsylvania, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico.
Chrysocolla Metaphysical Properties
The frequency of Chrysocolla connects to the heart and throat chakras. It opens and cleanses the throat chakra and, via the heart chakra, helps one to communicate and fully express one’s inner wisdom, knowledge, and truth with a heart-centered awareness.
The energy of Chrysocolla teaches one to understand the “power” and the use of words so that one does not have to speak in angry or sarcastic tones when communicating one’s feelings. This crystal allows one to speak from one’s heart with a gentle feminine (Goddess) energy so that a “true” communication with others can take place.
The gentle energy of Chrysocolla helps one to release stress, anxiety, and other fear-based emotions. It aids with issues of the throat area such as laryngitis and sore throats.
Associated Chakras
- Heart
- Throat
Physical Ailment
- Laryngitis
- Throat Sore
- Thyroid
Emotional Issue
- Communication
- Fear-based Emotions
- Speaking One’s Truth
Spiritual Connection
- Communication – Power of Words
- Goddess – Feminine Energy
History and Origins
Chrysocolla has been known to man since the beginning of recorded history, its name is actually two words from Greek, “Chrysa” meaning Gold, and “Kolla” which means glue. It should be noted that Chrysocolla got its name because its properties were first used to solder gold. Using Chrysocolla was first recorded in 315 BC by a Greek named Theophrastus.
Chrysocolla has a beautiful blue-green color, and many people mistake it for turquoise. Because this mineral is very soft, it is not used for ornamental jewelry, but can be used as cabochons when properly polished. This mineral only has a hardness rating on the Mohs scale of 2.5.
Besides being used in Ancient Greece as solder, it also has been given many mystical qualities by those that possess it. For instance, Chrysocolla is said to be an inspiration of creativity, it helps promote communication and is generally associated with femininity. Some of the many medicinal qualities given to this mineral are the ability to relieve ulcers and to help people stricken with arthritis.
If you wear or possess Chrysocolla, you are said to be extremely tranquil and at peace. You might find yourself more patient and be able to give unconditional love. Finally, Chrysocolla is also associated with the ability to soothe others, as well as one’s mind and body.
