mineral

Malachite

Malachite (Copper carbonate hydroxide), Cu2CO3(OH)2

Hardness: 3.5-4 (Mohs), Color: Bright green, dark green, or blackish green, Luster: Silky, velvety, or dull, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0

Hardness: 3

Identified June 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the weathering of copper ore deposits in the oxidation zone. It is often found associated with azurite, goethite, and calcite and develops through secondary precipitation from hydrothermal fluids.

Uses & applications

Used as a minor ore of copper, as a gemstone for jewelry, in lapidary work for ornamental objects such as vases and sculptures, and historically as a green pigment in paints.

Geological facts

In ancient Egypt, malachite was used to create amulets and eye makeup. It is famous for its distinctive circular or 'eye' banding and botryoidal (grape-like) growth habits. Large quantities were once mined in the Ural Mountains of Russia.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic banded green colors and reaction (effervescence) with cold dilute hydrochloric acid. It is commonly found in copper mining districts such as those in DR Congo, Namibia, Russia, and Arizona, USA.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic