Auricupride
A variety of Minerals
What is Auricupride?
Auricupride is a natural alloy that combines copper and gold. Its chemical formula is Cu3Au. The alloy crystallizes in the cubic crystal system in the L12 structure type and occurs as malleable grains or platey masses. It is an opaque yellow with a reddish tint. It has a hardness of 3.5 and a specific gravity of 11.5. A variant called tetra-auricupride (CuAu) exists. Silver may be present resulting in the variety argentocuproauride (Cu3(Au,Ag)). It was first described in 1950 for an occurrence in the Ural Mountains Russia. It occurs as low temperature unmixing product in serpentinites and as reduction "halos" in redbed deposits. It is most often found in Chile, Argentina, Tasmania, Russia, Cyprus, Switzerland and South Africa.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Auricupride 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.
Auricupride Localities Map
See where Auricupride is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pink
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5
- Density
- 13.77 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu3Au
- Elements
- Au, Cu
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Auricupride FAQs
How do I identify Auricupride?
Auricupride can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Pink color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Auricupride?
Auricupride typically appears in Pink. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Auricupride?
Auricupride has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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