Cuprite
A variety of Minerals
What is Cuprite?
Cuprite, although varied in colors, is predominately made of copper. This beautiful stone has been excavated worldwide, with some of the largest collections found in the American Southwest's copper veins. It is heavily mined as an ore and used for creating industrial-strength copper products. It is also called "ruby copper" because of its reddish tinge.
Etymology & Origins
Cuprite was first described by Wilhelm Karl Ritter von Haidinger in 1845 and the name derives from the Latin cuprum for its copper content.
Uses & Applications
Cuprite, though a beautiful gemstone, is not typically used in jewelry due to its brittleness. It is, however, found in patina on some bronze and copper artifacts. Artists have also used it to color glass beads, giving them a bloodstone hue.
Healing Properties
Cuprite is believed to give you more confidence and determination so that you can face adversity with a stronger sense of will-power and resolve. It is said to enhance feminine power and provides the emotional support for better relationships. It has been used to attract wealth and success. Many say it will help to put you in touch with those who can help you to achieve your personal, financial and professional goals.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.849
- Optical Character
- Isotropic
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Cuprite 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.
Cuprite Localities Map
See where Cuprite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Formation of Cuprite
It is a secondary mineral which forms in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide deposits. It frequently occurs in association with native copper, azurite, chrysocolla, malachite, tenorite and a variety of iron oxide minerals. It is known as ruby copper due to its distinctive red color.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Cuprite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper.
- ⚠️Copper
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle cuprite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing cuprite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store cuprite 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.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark red to cochineal red, almost black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
- Density
- 6.15 g/cm³
- Streak
- Shining metallic brownish-red
- Luster
- Metallic, Adamantine, Dull, Sub-metallic
- Crystal System
- Isometric
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu2O
- Elements
- Cu, O
Also Known As
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Cuprite FAQs
How do I identify Cuprite?
Cuprite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Dark red to cochineal red color, Metallic, Adamantine, Dull, Sub-metallic luster, Isometric crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Cuprite?
Cuprite typically appears in Dark red to cochineal red, almost black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Cuprite?
Cuprite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of cuprite of Cuprite?
It is a secondary mineral which forms in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide deposits. It frequently occurs in association with native copper, azurite, chrysocolla, malachite, tenorite and a variety of iron oxide minerals. It is known as ruby copper due to its distinctive red color.
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