Shattuckite Gem Guide and Properties Chart

Shattuckite is an extremely rare cuprian mineral that is found mixed most commonly with quartz. Its name is derived from a find in the Shattuck Mine in Bisbee, Arizona. Shattuckite comes in pale to striking blue shades.

General Information

Classification
Optical Properties
Characteristic Physical Properties
Chemistry & Crystallography

Common Name

Shattuckite

Species

Shattuckite

Transparency

Translucent-Semitransparent

Dispersion

Strength: Moderate Fire

Refractive Index

Over The Limit 1.753-1.815

Birefringence

0.062

Optic Character

Biaxial

Optic Sign

Negative

Polariscope Reaction

Aggregate (AGG)

Fluorescence

SWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert

CCF Reaction

None

Pleochroism

Trichroic, sky blue, medium blue, dark blue

Hardness

3.5

Streak

Pale blue

Specific Gravity

3.800-4.150

Toughness

Poor

Luster

Silky

Fracture

Granular

Cleavage

Perfect

Chemical Name

Copper Silicate Hydroxide

Chemical Formula

Cu₅(SiO₃)₄(OH)₂

Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Chemistry Classification

Silicate

Shattuckite Colors

Blue
Blue

Countries of Origin

United States of America (the); Unknown; Namibia

Care

Shattuckite is soft so take care when handing specimens. Stones are frequently stabilized so avoid hard wear, heat, chemicals and ultrasonic cleaner.