mineral

Malachite and Azurite on Matrix

Cu2CO3(OH)2 (Malachite) / Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2 (Azurite)

Hardness: 3.5-4.0; Color: Vibrant green (malachite) and deep blue (azurite); Luster: Adamantine to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0

Hardness: 3
Color: Vibrant green (malachite) and deep blue (azurite)
Luster: Adamantine to earthy

Identified February 22, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4.0; Color: Vibrant green (malachite) and deep blue (azurite); Luster: Adamantine to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.0

Formation & geological history

Formed via the oxidation of primary copper ore deposits in carbonated waters, typically in the weathered zones (gossans) above copper mines.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a minor copper ore, for ornamental carving, jewelry (cabochons), and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

Known as 'the stone of transformation', malachite has been used since antiquity for green pigments and as a cosmetic in ancient Egypt.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the distinctive green/blue banding or crusting on host rock; typically found in copper-rich regions like Arizona (USA), Congo, or Russia. Its presence is a common indicator of nearby copper deposits.

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