Mineral Species: Brochantite and Fluorite

Chemical Formula: CuSO4(OH)6

Chemical Name: Copper Sulfate Hydroxide

Mineral Class: Sulfate

Mineral Notes: Brochantite has in some locations been mined as an important ore of copper. It typically forms fibrous crystals aggregated into randomly organized rosettes and tufts. It is formed from the oxidation of primary copper ores together with other oxidation zone minerals. The mineral is similar to other fibrous green copper minerals including Antlerite and Atacamite. However Atacamite is slightly softer and is usually less transparent, whilst Antlerite terminations are typically flatter than the rounded terminations of Brochantite.

Description: A triangular matrix on which sit numerous cubic crystals of pale yellow Fluorite. Localised amongst these are several growths of intensely green Brochantite. The mineral forms the very characteristic needle-like crystals arranged into fan-shaped tufts. The luster is very strong making the Brochantite very attractive and highly noticeable. A really good display specimen.

Location: Socorro County, New Mexico, USA.