Mineralogical characteristics
Atacamite is a copper hydroxide chloride, a secondary copper mineral formed through the oxidation of other copper minerals, especially in arid conditions. It can alter into malachite and chrysocolla, creating pseudomorphs. Atacamite forms prismatic, tabular or pseudo-octahedral crystals. It is also found as radial rosettes or crystalline, granular, massive and fibrous aggregates.
The name atacamite refers to the Atacama Desert in Chile, where atacamite crystals up to 2.5 cm long have been found.
Deposits
Chile (Atacama), Mexico, United States, Australia, United Kingdom, Russia, Spain, Italy, South Africa, Peru, Austria, Argentina, Bolivia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India and Japan.
Therapeutic properties
Atacamite is a stone related to unconditional love and healing. It is said to help open the third eye, encouraging spiritual connection and visualization. It is a calming and healing stone, which is why it is often used in situations of stress or tension. It is also used for energetic cleansing of the body. On a healing level, atacamite is said to support the thymus and immune system.