Where is Peacock Ore found?
Bornite (iridescently tarnished)
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appPeacock Ore occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Peacock Ore
Butte, Montana, USA
Historically a major copper mining district, known for significant bornite occurrences.
Cornwall, England
Famous for its copper and tin deposits, bornite is found in many of the old mines.
Mexico
Various copper deposits throughout Mexico yield bornite specimens.
Chile
A world leader in copper production, with numerous deposits containing bornite.
Zambia
Part of the 'Copperbelt' region, known for its extensive copper mineralization including bornite.
Collecting tips
- Look for Copper Deposits. Bornite is a copper ore, so search in areas known for copper mineralization, particularly in sulfide-rich environments.
- Identify Associated Minerals. Bornite often occurs with chalcopyrite, pyrite, chalcocite, and quartz. The presence of these minerals can indicate a bornite-rich zone.
- Observe Tarnish. The most distinctive feature is the rapid and vibrant iridescent tarnish. Freshly broken surfaces will be copper-red, but within minutes to hours, the 'peacock' colors will begin to appear.
- Check Hardness. Bornite is relatively soft (Mohs 3), so it can be scratched with a knife or even a copper coin. This helps differentiate it from harder sulfides like pyrite.
- Consider Specific Gravity. It is a relatively heavy mineral (specific gravity 4.9-5.3), which can be a useful field indicator.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Reddish-brown to copper-red when fresh, rapidly tarnishing to iridescent blue, purple, red, and green.
- Luster:
- Metallic.
- Streak:
- Grayish-black.
Explore Peacock Ore
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.