mineral

Malachite

Copper(II) carbonate hydroxide [Cu2CO3(OH)2]

Hardness: 3.5-4.0; Color: Bright green to dark green with distinctive banding; Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky; Crystal system: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0.

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

Identified April 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4.0; Color: Bright green to dark green with distinctive banding; Luster: Adamantine to vitreous or silky; Crystal system: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the oxidized zones of copper deposits where copper-bearing solutions react with carbonate rocks. It is a secondary mineral often found associated with azurite, goethite, and calcite.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, in jewelry (cabochons and beads), and historically as a green pigment for paints throughout antiquity. It is also an ore of copper.

Geological facts

Malachite is famous for its 'eyes' or concentric banding. In ancient Egypt, it was ground into powder and used as eye shadow. It is often found intergrown with blue azurite, creating a stunning mineral called 'Azurmalachite'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive green banding and light green streak. In the field, it reacts (effervesces) with cold dilute hydrochloric acid. Common locations include the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia (Ural Mountains), and Arizona, USA.

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