mineral

Malachite

Malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2)

Hardness: 3.5 to 4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Bright green to dark green with distinctive banding. Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic. Specific Gravity: 3.6 to 4.0.

Hardness: 3
Color: Bright green to dark green with distinctive banding
Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky

Identified July 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 to 4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Bright green to dark green with distinctive banding. Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic. Specific Gravity: 3.6 to 4.0.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, typically as a secondary mineral. It occurs in limestone environments where circulating waters provide the necessary carbonate. Significant deposits in Congo, Russia, and the USA.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative stone, in jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and historically as a pigment for paintings.

Geological facts

Malachite is often found associated with Azurite. It has been used by humans for over 4,000 years, beginning in Ancient Egypt where it was mined and used for jewelry and even eye shadow.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive light and dark green banding and high reactivity to cold dilute hydrochloric acid. It is often found in copper mining districts.