description Libethenite Overview
Libethenite is a copper phosphate hydroxide mineral that commonly forms olive-green to dark green crystals. It was first described from Ľubietová in Slovakia, a mineral locality whose historical German name was Libethen. The mineral is valued mainly by collectors because of its crystal form and color rather than as a major source of copper. It belongs to the phosphate mineral group and is associated with oxidized copper deposits.
help Libethenite FAQ
What is libethenite made of?
Libethenite is a copper phosphate hydroxide with the formula Cu2(PO4)(OH). It is a rare phosphate mineral, not a variety of emerald or another green gemstone. [Handbook of Mineralogy](https://www.handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/libethenite.pdf)
Where did libethenite get its name?
It was first described from Ľubietová in Slovakia, whose historical German name was Libethen. Mineral references date its discovery to 1823. [Handbook of Mineralogy](https://www.handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/libethenite.pdf)
What color and crystal form does libethenite have?
It commonly forms olive-green to dark-green orthorhombic crystals, sometimes in clusters or drusy coatings. Its green color and sharp crystals are why collector specimens are easy to recognize. [Handbook of Mineralogy](https://www.handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/libethenite.pdf)
Why do collectors value libethenite?
It forms as an uncommon secondary mineral in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, so good crystals can be scarce. Its main value is to mineral collectors rather than to mainstream jewelry, and its type locality is Ľubietová. [Handbook of Mineralogy](https://www.handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/libethenite.pdf)
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