Liroconite
A variety of Minerals
What is Liroconite?
Liroconite is a complex mineral: Hydrated copper aluminium arsenate hydroxide, with the formula Cu2Al[(OH)4|AsO4]·4(H2O). It is a vitreous monoclinic mineral, colored bright blue to green, often associated with malachite, azurite, olivenite, and clinoclase. It is quite soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2 - 2.5, and has a specific gravity of 2.9 - 3.0. It was first identified in 1825 in the tin and copper mines of Devon and Cornwall, England. Although it remains quite rare it has subsequently been identified in a variety of locations including France, Germany, Australia, New Jersey and California. The type locality for liroconite is Wheal Gorland in St Day, Cornwall in the United Kingdom. It occurs as a secondary mineral in copper deposits in association with olivenite, chalcophyllite, clinoclase, cornwallite, strashimirite, malachite, cuprite and limonite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Liroconite 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.
Liroconite Localities Map
See where Liroconite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Liroconite
Liroconite crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. The crystal structure consists of a framework of AsO4 tetrahedra, Jahn-Teller-distorted [CuO2(OH)2(H2O)2] octahedra and [AlO2(OH)4] octahedra.
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Sky-blue to green; light blue to light bluish green in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 2.97 g/cm³
- Streak
- Light blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu2Al(AsO4)(OH)4 · 4H2O
- Elements
- Al, As, Cu, H, O
Also Known As
Identify Liroconite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Liroconite FAQs
How do I identify Liroconite?
Liroconite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Sky-blue to green; light blue to light bluish green in transmitted light. color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Liroconite?
Liroconite typically appears in Sky-blue to green; light blue to light bluish green in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Liroconite?
Liroconite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the composition of liroconite of Liroconite?
Liroconite crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. The crystal structure consists of a framework of AsO4 tetrahedra, Jahn-Teller-distorted [CuO2(OH)2(H2O)2] octahedra and [AlO2(OH)4] octahedra.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
