mineral

Green copper-oxide mineral specimen, likely malachite-bearing rock

Malachite, Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂; identification from the image is provisional

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rough, bright to dull green, earthy and uneven; malachite has Mohs hardness 3.5–4, monoclinic crystals, and typically no obvious cleavage. The specimen may include other copper minerals or host rock.

Identified October 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Malachite forms as a secondary copper mineral when copper deposits weather near Earth’s surface, commonly in oxidized zones; its age depends on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Collected as a mineral specimen and, when massive and attractive, cut or polished for ornaments and jewelry; historically used as copper ore and pigment.

Geological facts

Malachite often occurs with azurite and can show distinctive green banding when polished.

Field identification & locations

Look for vivid green color, relatively low hardness, and effervescence in dilute acid; the rough texture and color alone do not confirm malachite. Found in oxidized copper deposits worldwide, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, and the southwestern United States.