Gilalite
A variety of Minerals
What is Gilalite?
Gilalite is a copper silicate mineral with chemical composition of Cu5Si6O17·7(H2O). It occurs as a retrograde metamorphic phase in a calc-silicate and sulfide skarn deposit. It occurs as fracture fillings and incrustations associated with diopside crystals. It is commonly found in the form of spherules of radial fibers. It was first described for an occurrence in the Christmas porphyry copper mine in Gila County, Arizona in 1980 along with the mineral apachite. It derives its name from this locality. It has also been reported from the Goodsprings District, Clark County, Nevada; Juazeiro do Norte, Ceara State, Brazil and a slag area in Lavrion District, Attica, Greece.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Gilalite 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.
Gilalite Localities Map
See where Gilalite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Translucent green, blue-green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Density
- 2.54 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu5Si6O17 · 7H2O
- Elements
- Cu, H, O, Si
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Gilalite FAQs
How do I identify Gilalite?
Gilalite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Translucent green color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Gilalite?
Gilalite typically appears in Translucent green, blue-green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Gilalite?
Gilalite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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