Caledonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Caledonite?
Caledonite is a blue-green mineral named after its place of discovery, Caledonia, now known as modern-day Scotland. This mineral is soft and brittle. Though relatively rare to come across, it can be found among oxidized copper and lead deposits. Caledonite is a favorite mineral among collectors due to its intense color.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.818-1.909
- Pleochroism
- Weak
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Caledonite 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.
Caledonite Localities Map
See where Caledonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Caledonite
Caledonite's primary use is a collector's mineral. Although it contains copper and lead, it is a secondary mineral and is not prevalent enough in any known deposits to be used as an ore. Caledonite, when developed into full crystals, can have a deep blue-green color reminiscent of secondary copper minerals. Its high lustre, on the other hand, is more like secondary lead minerals. Localities in which caledonite occurs as well developed crystals are quite rare and include the Mammoth-St. Anthony Mine at Tiger, Arizona, a few mines in California, such as the Reward Mine. A few other mines in Arizona and Chile have been known to produce samples.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Caledonite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper, Lead.
- ⚠️Copper, Lead
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle caledonite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing caledonite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store caledonite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark blue to bluish-green, light bluish green in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 5.689 g/cm³
- Streak
- Greenish-blue to bluish-white, paler than the sample
- Luster
- Vitreous, Resinous
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Pb5Cu2(SO4)3(CO3)(OH)6
- Elements
- C, Cu, H, O, Pb, S
Also Known As
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Caledonite FAQs
How do I identify Caledonite?
Caledonite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Dark blue to bluish-green color, Vitreous, Resinous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Caledonite?
Caledonite typically appears in Dark blue to bluish-green, light bluish green in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Caledonite?
Caledonite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the characteristics of caledonite of Caledonite?
Caledonite's primary use is a collector's mineral. Although it contains copper and lead, it is a secondary mineral and is not prevalent enough in any known deposits to be used as an ore. Caledonite, when developed into full crystals, can have a deep blue-green color reminiscent of secondary copper minerals. Its high lustre, on the other hand, is more like secondary lead minerals. Localities in which caledonite occurs as well developed crystals are quite rare and include the Mammoth-St. Anthony Mine at Tiger, Arizona, a few mines in California, such as the Reward Mine. A few other mines in Arizona and Chile have been known to produce samples.
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