Copper is one of the most important metals for humankind and has been so since the bronze age. Indeed bronze being an alloy of copper and tin. One of the main reasons for its early use is the fact that it is easily found in nature in its native, or unreacted, form. It is also relatively soft, so can be easily shaped into tools and decorations.

Description: This is an angular matrix of metamorphic rock upon which sits a dendritic crystal of native copper. The formation bears a close resemblance to a starfish. The colour is deep green, where the copper laying underneath has oxidised to produce the colourful surface layer. A rare crystal habit of an important metal. 

Location: Bankov, Kosice, Slovakia.