Chalcocite

Chalcocite specimens for sale

124 for sale · $85–$12,500 USD

218 in the gallery

Chalcocite is a copper sulfide mineral that forms as a metallic, gray to black crystal or massive mineral with a characteristic high luster. It commonly occurs as fine-grained to coarser aggregates, often combining with other copper minerals to create strikingly dark, almost silver-gray surfaces that reflect light with a metallic gleam. The mineral is frequently found in hydrothermal ore veins and near porphyry copper deposits, where reducing conditions concentrate the copper sulfide and allow it to crystallize in foliated or bladed habits. Noted specimens come from classic localities around the world and can exhibit well-formed crystals and botryoidal or fibrous textures, making them a staple for cabinets and display pieces.

Formula
Cu2S
Rarity
Common
Stability
Moderately Stable
Collector interest
High Interest
Classification notes
Sulfides; Copper(I) sulfide (Cu2S); Strunz 2.C

Key characteristics

Crystal system
monoclinic
Mohs hardness
2.5–3
Specific gravity
5.5–5.8
Luster
metallic
Transparency
opaque
Color
gray, black
Streak
gray, black
Cleavage
poor
Fracture
conchoidal, uneven
Crystal habit
tabular, prismatic, granular, massive
  • Classic / historic

Buy Chalcocite specimens

View all 124

Where Chalcocite is found

Top localities

  1. Flambeau Mine66 specimens
  2. Dzhezkazgan mining district6 specimens
  3. Aït Ahmane5 specimens
  4. Geevor Mine5 specimens
  5. Bristol Copper Mine4 specimens
  6. Levant Mine4 specimens
  7. M'Passa Mine4 specimens
  8. Tonglushan Mine4 specimens
  9. Cook's Kitchen Mine3 specimens
  10. Milpillas Mine3 specimens

About Chalcocite

Collectors value chalcocite for its rich color, metallic lustre, and association with high-grade copper ore environments. In hand specimens the mineral’s color and reflective surface can contrast sharply with lighter minerals, enhancing display appeal. While often accompanying other copper sulfides, well-prepared pieces that show sharp, reflective surfaces and clean, dense masses are especially sought after by mineral enthusiasts who appreciate ore-mament textures and the mineral’s role in copper mineralogy.