Malachite
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Mineral NameMalachite
Chemical FormulaCu2(CO3)(OH)2
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustersilky
Streak Colorlight green
Cleavageperfect on {201}, good on {001}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity3.9
Colorsgreen, dark green, banded green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityUral Mountains (Russia), Congo, Zambia
Mineral Groupcarbonates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, pigment, minor copper ore, collector
Associated Mineralsazurite, cuprite, native copper, chrysocolla
Raritycommon
Description
Malachite is a distinctive bright green mineral, often found in botryoidal or massive forms with characteristic concentric banding. Its vibrant color makes it easily recognizable.
Geological Context
Malachite is a secondary copper mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits, typically in limestone environments where it precipitates from copper-bearing solutions.
