Apachite
A variety of Minerals
What is Apachite?
Apachite is a copper silicate mineral with a general formula of Cu9Si10O29·11H2O. The name is associated with the Apache tribe residents of the area near the Christmas copper mine in the Dripping Spring Mountains of Gila County, Arizona, the location where apachite was first described in 1980. Apachite has monoclinic crystal symmetry, displaying 3 axes of unequal length with two of the axes perpendicular to each other as well as one angle oriented less than 90°. The mineral has a maximum birefringence value of δ = 0.040 which describes the difference between the highest and lowest index of refraction for the mineral. Apachite is an anisotropic mineral, so the velocity of light varies for this mineral. It occurs in retrograde metamorphic environment as fractures cutting garnet diopside skarn. It occurs associated with kinoite, gilalite, stringhamite, junitoite, clinohedrite, xonotlite, apophyllite, calcite and tobermorite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Apachite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Apachite Localities Map
See where Apachite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue ("faience-blue")
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu9Si10O29 · 11H2O
- Elements
- Cu, H, O, Si
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Apachite FAQs
How do I identify Apachite?
Apachite can be identified by its Blue ("faience-blue") color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Apachite?
Apachite typically appears in Blue ("faience-blue"). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
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