Other copper minerals are far more economical to mine and purify into metallic copper that is used for wiring, electrical components, pennies and other coins, tubing and many other applications. Native copper is still found in limited quantities in once-active mining regions. These finds are now valuable as minerological specimens and ornamental pieces. Fine specimens only rarely demonstrate crystal faces and these are prized above otherwise similar specimens.
Color is copper colored with weathered specimens tarnished green.
Luster is metallic. Transparency is opaque. Occasionally, massive forms will show some recognizable crystal faces on outer surfaces. Cleavage is absent. Fracture is jagged.