Lazaraskeite is a rare copper acetate mineral discovered in the oxidized zones of copper deposits. It typically forms as delicate, transparent to colorless prismatic crystals and is highly prized by mineral collectors specializing in rare species.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Lazaraskeite

Hardness: 2
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

Is this lazaraskeite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch lazaraskeite with a known reference. Lazaraskeite sits at Mohs 2 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Lazaraskeite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Lazaraskeite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: colorless, white.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Lazaraskeite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside lazaraskeite

Minerals reported to co-occur with lazaraskeite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu(C₂H₄O₂)₂·2H₂O
Mohs hardness: 2
Density: 2.16 g/cm³
Colors: Colorless White
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Hydrothermal Copper Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find lazaraskeite

Classic worldwide localities

Lazaraska mine, Serbia

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized hydrothermal copper deposits country — that is the host setting where lazaraskeite typically forms. If you start seeing malachite, azurite, goethite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify lazaraskeite?+

Mohs hardness is 2. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include colorless, white.

Where is lazaraskeite found?+

Notable localities include Lazaraska mine, Serbia.

How much is lazaraskeite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is lazaraskeite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper and acetate compounds; avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust. Handle with care due to chemical composition. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like lazaraskeite?+

Lazaraskeite is most often confused with Gypsum, Chalcanthite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with lazaraskeite?+

Lazaraskeite commonly co-occurs with Malachite, Azurite, Goethite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does lazaraskeite form in?+

Lazaraskeite typically forms in oxidized hydrothermal copper deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is lazaraskeite used for?+

Lazaraskeite is used in collector.

Find lazaraskeite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.