Chrysocolla with Quartz

specimen number:
2262175

location:
Bagdad Mine, Yavapai Co., Arizona, USA

description:
An open pocket within this tenorite rich matrix is lined with beautiful blue chrysocolla which in turn is coated with sparkling crystals of quartz. Classic material for this locality. This is in good condition. The specimen comes with a previous data card that dates this to the 1960s.

The Bagdad mine, located in the Eureka mining district of Yavapai County, Arizona, is a massive porphyry copper deposit renowned for its striking specimens of chrysocolla-infused quartz and chalcedony. Geologically, the ore body is centered on a Laramie-age quartz monzonite stock that intruded Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rocks, with subsequent supergene enrichment creating secondary copper minerals within the oxidized zone. This process resulted in the formation of vibrant blue and blue-green chrysocolla, which is often found as inclusions within colorless or white quartz, sometimes producing high-quality gem silica. Historically, mining in the Bagdad area began with the discovery of copper in 1882, though large-scale development was delayed until the early 20th century due to the remote location. Industrial-scale open-pit mining operations commenced in the 1940s and have continued through various owners into 2026, making it one of the longest-running major copper producers in the state.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.