Copper

specimen number:
2062103

location:
South Kearsarge Mine, Houghton Co., Michigan, USA

description:
A neat example of what is generally called shot copper. In great condition. Collected in 1998.

Shot copper refers to small, rounded masses or droplets of native copper that resemble pellets or shot. These forms typically develop when molten or semi-molten copper solidifies quickly, or through natural geological processes where copper is deposited in small, globular shapes within rock cavities or fractures. In mining regions like Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula, shot copper is sometimes found embedded in basalt or conglomerate, appearing as scattered, bead-like pieces rather than large solid masses. It is valued by collectors for its unusual texture and form, as it differs from the more common vein or sheet-like native copper.

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