Native Copper
Native Copper (IMA-approved mineral name: Copper) · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically occurs as massive, distorted cubes, octahedrons, or more commonly as dendritic, wire-like, or irregular arborescent masses.
Mineral Group
Native Elements (Native Metals)
Chemical Formula
Cu (uncombined copper metal, often with trace amounts of Ag, Fe, or As)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal / Igneous. Formed by the precipitation from hydrothermal fluids in basaltic lava cavities or as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits.
About This Crystal
An opaque mineral with a distinct reddish-orange 'copper' color on fresh surfaces, often oxidizing to a dull brownish-red. This specimen shows a massive, somewhat rough and pitted texture with a metallic luster and typical irregular morphology.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Copper-red to brownish; Streak: Metallic copper-red; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Hackly (jagged); Specific Gravity: 8.94; Tenacity: Highly malleable and ductile; Magnetism: Non-magnetic.
Optical Properties
Opaque (does not transmit light); Metallic luster; Non-refractive in the traditional sense as it is a metal; reflects metallic light uniformly.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan, USA (most famous source); Arizona, USA; Corocoro, Bolivia; and various Tsumeb regions in Namibia. Often found in basaltic lavas or sedimentary rocks.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 2.5 - 3.0. High toughness because it is malleable (it bends rather than breaks), but easily scratched by harder materials. Not recommended for facet jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners and harsh chemicals which cause corrosion. Clean with warm soapy water. Store in a low-humidity environment to prevent the formation of green tarnish (cuprite or malachite patina).
Rarity & Value
Relatively common in massive form, but well-crystallized dendritic or arborescent specimens are highly valued by collectors. Pricing depends on aesthetics and size, ranging from a few dollars to thousands for museum-grade pieces.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity. Known for its 'hackly' fracture and extreme malleability. Specimen may exhibit a 'patina' or dull oxide layer as it reacts with air over time.
Lore & History
Used by humans for over 10,000 years, copper was the first metal to be worked by hand and smelted. Historically associated with the planet Venus and used for tools, currency, and early jewelry. In traditional lore, it is thought to conduct energy and assist with joint health/inflammation (unsubstantiated scientifically).