mineral
Malachite
Malachite, Cu2CO3(OH)2
Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs), Color: Bright green with layered banding, Luster: Adamantine to vitreous (silky when fibrous), Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, Specific gravity: 3.6-4.0
- Hardness
- 3
Identified More mineral →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs), Color: Bright green with layered banding, Luster: Adamantine to vitreous (silky when fibrous), Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, Specific gravity: 3.6-4.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in the oxidized zone of copper deposits where carbonated water reacts with copper minerals; often found in limestone environments.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry as cabochons, decorative carvings, copper ore, and historically as a pigment.
Geological facts
In ancient Egypt, malachite was used as a cosmetic (eyeshadow) and for talismans; it is frequently found associated with Azurite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive vibrant green concentric bands; commonly found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Australia, and Arizona, USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
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
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral