Mineral

Malachite

Malachite (Copper Carbonate Hydroxide) - Cu2CO3(OH)2

Hardness: 3.5-4 (Mohs scale), Color: Bright green to dark green with characteristic banding, Luster: Adamantine to silky, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0

Hardness: 3

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4 (Mohs scale), Color: Bright green to dark green with characteristic banding, Luster: Adamantine to silky, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of copper ore deposits. It occurs when carbonated water reacts with copper-bearing minerals. Common in all geological ages where copper weathering occurs.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental purposes, jewelry (pendants, beads), and decorative inlay. Historically used as a copper ore and a green pigment in paints.

Geological facts

In Ancient Egypt, malachite was associated with the 'Field of Reeds' (the afterlife). It is almost always found alongside Azurite. The 'Malachite Room' in the State Hermitage Museum houses massive vases and columns made of this mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive silky luster and intense green concentric banding. Found globally in copper-rich regions like the DR Congo, Russia (Urals), and Arizona. Collectors look for high contrast in the bands and botryoidal (grape-like) habits.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral