mineral

Malachite

Malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2)

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Bright green, dark green to blackish green; Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0. Notable for its distinctive banded patterns.

Hardness: 3
Color: Bright green, dark green to blackish green
Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidation zones of copper deposits where carbonated waters interact with copper-bearing minerals. Typically found in botryoidal, fibrous, or stalactitic habits.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as a gemstone in jewelry, for ornamental carvings, as a mineral specimen for collectors, and historically as a green pigment in paints.

Geological facts

Malachite was used as a copper ore and a green pigment for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used it for amulets and eyeshadow as early as 4000 BC. Large deposits in Russia were used to create the famous Malachite Room in the Winter Palace.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its vibrant green color and rhythmic banding (bull's eyes or stripes). In the field, look for its association with other copper minerals like azurite. Common locations include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Namibia, and Arizona, USA.