Covellite identification and geology

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• Bornite
• Chalcocite
• Azurite

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:37:00.130199+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
• Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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Common questions

What is Covellite?

Copper sulfide with a striking indigo-blue color and iridescent appearance. Forms thin platy hexagonal crystals.

How can you identify Covellite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Indigo blue, iridescent; lustre: Submetallic to dull; streak: Lead-gray to black; Mohs hardness: 1.5-2; cleavage: Perfect basal; crystal system: Hexagonal; transparency: Opaque. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Covellite form?

Forms in the supergene enrichment zone of copper deposits as a secondary mineral.

Where is Covellite commonly found?

Montana Butte , Italy, Chile, Serbia; found in oxidized copper deposits.

What is Covellite commonly confused with?

Covellite may be confused with Bornite, Chalcocite, Azurite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.