mineral
Malachite
Copper Carbonate Hydroxide, Cu2CO3(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 3.5-4, vibrant green color with distinct banding, adamantine to dull luster, monoclinic crystal system, specific gravity 3.6-4.0.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 3.5-4, vibrant green color with distinct banding, adamantine to dull luster, monoclinic crystal system, specific gravity 3.6-4.0.
Formation & geological history
Forms in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits through the alteration of copper minerals, often in limestone settings.
Uses & applications
Widely used for ornamental carvings, polished gemstones, beads, and historically as a green mineral pigment.
Geological facts
Ancient Egyptians used ground malachite for eyeshadow and tomb paintings. It often coexists with blue azurite.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its characteristic green color variations, banding, and fizzing reaction with dilute hydrochloric acid. Found globally, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, and Australia.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous