description Shattuckite Overview
Shattuckite is a rare copper silicate hydroxide mineral that commonly forms in oxidized zones of copper deposits. It is typically opaque and appears in vivid blue to blue-green shades, making it of interest to mineral collectors and sometimes to makers of ornamental objects. The mineral was named after the Shattuck mine in Bisbee, Arizona, where it was identified in the early twentieth century.
help Shattuckite FAQ
What is shattuckite made of, and why is it blue?
Shattuckite is a rare secondary copper silicate hydroxide with the ideal formula Cu5(SiO3)4(OH)2. Its blue to blue-green color comes from copper, and it commonly forms in oxidized parts of copper deposits.
Where was shattuckite first described?
It was named after the Shattuck Mine in Bisbee, Arizona, which is its type locality. The mineral was first published as a new species in 1915.
Is shattuckite hard enough for an everyday ring?
Usually not, because Mindat lists its Mohs hardness at about 3.5. It is better suited to display pieces, pendants, or occasional wear than to a ring exposed to frequent knocks.
How can I tell shattuckite from plancheite or chrysocolla?
Color alone is unreliable because all three can be blue copper minerals. Shattuckite is orthorhombic and has a specific gravity of about 4.1, so hardness, density, and laboratory testing are more useful for identification.
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