Papagoite
A variety of Minerals
What is Papagoite?
Papagoite is a rare cyclosilicate mineral. Chemically, it is a calcium copper aluminium silicate hydroxide, found as a secondary mineral on slip surfaces and in altered granodiorite veins, either in massive form or as microscopic crystals that may form spherical aggregates. Its chemical formula is CaCuAlSi2O6(OH)3. It was discovered in 1960 in Ajo, Arizona, US, and was named after the Hia C-ed O'odham people (also known as the Sand Papago) who inhabit the area. This location is the only papagoite source within the United States, while worldwide it is also found in South Africa and Namibia. It is associated with aurichalcite, shattuckite, ajoite and baryte in Arizona, and with quartz, native copper and ajoite in South Africa. Its bright blue color is the mineral's most notable characteristic. It is used as a gemstone.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.607-1.672
- Birefringence
- 0.065
- Pleochroism
- Colorless to very pale greenish blue, blue, deep greenish blue
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Papagoite 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.
Papagoite Localities Map
See where Papagoite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Papagoite was named after the native Sand Papago peoples in Arizona. Traditionally, it is thought to be the stone of "far sight," enabling humans to communicate psychically from long distances, see into the past or future, and speak directly to the soul. Legend tells that one can even look into their past lives with this stone.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 5.5
- Streak
- Light blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- CaCu[H3AlSi2O9]
- Elements
- Al, Ca, Cu, H, O, Si
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Papagoite FAQs
How do I identify Papagoite?
Papagoite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Papagoite?
Papagoite typically appears in Blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Papagoite?
Papagoite has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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