Spertiniite
A variety of Minerals
What is Spertiniite?
Spertiniite is a rare copper hydroxide mineral. Chemically it is copper(II) hydroxide with formula Cu(OH)2. It occurs as blue to blue green tabular orthorhombic crystal aggregates in a secondary alkaline environment altering chalcosite. Associated minerals include chalcocite, atacamite, native copper, diopside, grossular and vesuvianite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Spertiniite 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.
Spertiniite Localities Map
See where Spertiniite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Spertiniite
It was first described in 1981 for an occurrence in the Jeffrey quarry of the Johns-Manville mine, Asbestos, Estrie, Québec. It was named for mine geologist Francesco Spertini (born 1937). In addition to the type locality, it has also been reported from Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec; Ely, White Pine County, Nevada; and Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona. It has been reported from Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan; from slag at Juliushutte, Astfeld, Harz Mountains, Germany; and from Tsumeb, Namibia. A 2006 study has produced evidence the blue mineral chrysocolla may be a microscopic mixture of spertiniite, amorphous silica and water.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Light blue, blue-green
- Density
- 3.94 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu(OH)2
- Elements
- Cu, H, O
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Spertiniite FAQs
How do I identify Spertiniite?
Spertiniite can be identified by its Light blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Spertiniite?
Spertiniite typically appears in Light blue, blue-green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
What is the formation of spertiniite of Spertiniite?
It was first described in 1981 for an occurrence in the Jeffrey quarry of the Johns-Manville mine, Asbestos, Estrie, Québec. It was named for mine geologist Francesco Spertini (born 1937). In addition to the type locality, it has also been reported from Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec; Ely, White Pine County, Nevada; and Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona. It has been reported from Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan; from slag at Juliushutte, Astfeld, Harz Mountains, Germany; and from Tsumeb, Namibia. A 2006 study has produced evidence the blue mineral chrysocolla may be a microscopic mixture of spertiniite, amorphous silica and water.
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