Shattuckite

A variety of Minerals

Rare
Shattuckite specimen

What is Shattuckite?

Found first and most predominantly during mining operations in Bisbee, Arizona, shattuckite is an unforgettable gem find! It is relatively uncommon to stumble upon and is usually nestled in with other minerals such as quartz. Smaller specimens make excellent gems for beading and jewelry.

Etymology & Origins

Shattuckite is a relatively rare copper silicate mineral. It was first discovered in 1915 in the copper mines of Bisbee, Arizona, specifically the Shattuck Mine (hence the name).

Uses & Applications

Shattuckite is a minor ore of copper, which is an important metal for currency, electrical equipment, and industrial machinery. This mineral is also occasionally used as a gemstone in jewelry, such as pendants or beads. Due to its rarity and beauty, shattuckite is highly sought out by mineral collectors.

Healing Properties

Shattuckite is believed to be an excellent stone for enabling communication. A great aid for anyone engaged in public speaking, it works on the Crown, Throat, and Heart chakras to unite the three in harmony with the mind, body and soul. It is believed to have the ability to unlock messages from the spirit world and help one to understand their higher purpose in life. It works on the heart with positive energy that encourages love to flow freely.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index
1.752-1.815
Birefringence
0.063
Pleochroism
Strong: very pale, deep blue
Optical Character
Biaxial negative

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Shattuckite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Shattuckite Localities Map

See where Shattuckite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Associated Chakras

Heart
Heart
Throat
Throat
Crown
Crown

Health & Safety Information

  • ⚠️Shattuckite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper.
  • ⚠️Copper
  • ⚠️It's advisable to handle shattuckite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing shattuckite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store shattuckite 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.

More Images

Shattuckite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky
Shattuckite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky
Shattuckite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Light to dark blue
Hardness (Mohs)
3.5
Density
4.128 g/cm³
Streak
Blue
Luster
Silky
Crystal System
Orthorhombic

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Cu5(Si2O6)2(OH)2
Elements
Cu, H, O, Si
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Shattuckite FAQs

How do I identify Shattuckite?

Shattuckite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Light to dark blue color, Silky luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Shattuckite?

Shattuckite typically appears in Light to dark blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Shattuckite?

Shattuckite has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

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