How do I identify Caledonite?

Caledonite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Dark blue to bluish-green color, Vitreous, Resinous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Caledonite?

Caledonite typically appears in Dark blue to bluish-green, light bluish green in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Caledonite?

Caledonite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Caledonite

A variety of Minerals

Rare

Caledonite specimen - rock identification

What is Caledonite?

Caledonite is a blue-green mineral named after its place of discovery, Caledonia, now known as modern-day Scotland. This mineral is soft and brittle. Though relatively rare to come across, it can be found among oxidized copper and lead deposits. Caledonite is a favorite mineral among collectors due to its intense color.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.818-1.909
Pleochroism: Weak
Optical Character: Biaxial negative

Caledonite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Caledonite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Caledonite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Characteristics of Caledonite

Caledonite's primary use is a collector's mineral. Although it contains copper and lead, it is a secondary mineral and is not prevalent enough in any known deposits to be used as an ore. Caledonite, when developed into full crystals, can have a deep blue-green color reminiscent of secondary copper minerals. Its high lustre, on the other hand, is more like secondary lead minerals. Localities in which caledonite occurs as well developed crystals are quite rare and include the Mammoth-St. Anthony Mine at Tiger, Arizona, a few mines in California, such as the Reward Mine. A few other mines in Arizona and Chile have been known to produce samples.

Health & Safety Information

⚠️Harm Reason: Caledonite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper, Lead.
⚠️Heavy Metal: Copper, Lead
⚠️How to prevent the risks of Caledonite?