Guide
Atacamite specimens for sale
17 for sale · $90–$7,500 USD
143 in the gallery
Atacamite is a copper chloride hydroxide mineral that forms as a secondary phase in oxidation zones of copper deposits. It typically presents a rich emerald to deep green color, with crystals ranging from acute to prismatic in habit and a vitreous to dull lustre. Fine specimens can show well-formed crystal terminations and striking color contrast against associated minerals such as malachite or azurite, and it is often found in slender, tabular crystals or in botryoidal masses.
- Formula
- Cu2(OH)3Cl
- Rarity
- Common
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- High Interest
- Classification notes
- Halide mineral; chloride (Cu, Cl, OH)
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- orthorhombic
- Mohs hardness
- 3–3.5
- Specific gravity
- 3.74–3.77
- Luster
- adamantine, vitreous
- Transparency
- transparent, translucent, opaque
- Color
- green, black
- Streak
- green
- Cleavage
- perfect
- Fracture
- conchoidal, uneven
- Crystal habit
- prismatic, tabular, acicular, fibrous, radiating, granular, massive
- Classic / historic
Buy Atacamite specimens
View all 17Where Atacamite is found
Top localities
- New Cornwall Mine37 specimens
- Lily Mine22 specimens
- La Farola Mine16 specimens
- Mount Gunson6 specimens
- Atacama5 specimens
- Wallaroo Mine5 specimens
- Peru1 specimen
- Chuquicamata Mine1 specimen
- Lily mine1 specimen
- Mammoth-Saint Anthony Mine1 specimen
Guides
All guidesAbout Atacamite
Notable localities include oxidized copper deposits in Chile and Peru, with additional finds in Australia, Mexico, and parts of the United States. Specimens from these regions are sought after for their vivid coloration and crystal clarity, which make Atacamite a compelling subject for collection and display. Collectors value well-formed crystals, color stability, and association with other copper minerals, which together enhance the aesthetic and scientific appeal of a specimen.
