Malachite
Malachite (Copper Carbonate Hydroxide) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Mineral
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically forms in botryoidal (grape-like), fibrous, or massive habits. Rarely found as individual crystals.
Mineral Group
Carbonates
Chemical Formula
Cu2(CO3)(OH)2
Formation Process
Secondary mineral formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits, often via hydrothermal precipitation or through the action of carbonated water on copper-bearing rocks.
About This Crystal
An opaque, green mineral featuring distinct concentric banding or fibrous patterns in various shades of emerald to forest green. The luster is silky to velvety in fibrous forms and vitreous to dull in massive forms.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Bright green, dark green, blackish-green; Streak: Pale green; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction (rarely seen in massive forms); Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 3.6 to 4.0; Fluorescence: None.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.655–1.909; Birefringence: 0.254 (strong); Pleochroism: Nearly colorless to yellowish-green to deep green; Optically Biaxial negative.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Democratic Republic of the Congo (primary source for high quality), Russia (Ural Mountains), Namibia, Australia, and Arizona, USA.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 3.5 to 4.0. It is a soft stone, quite fragile and sensitive to acids, heat, and impacts. Not recommended for high-wear jewelry like rings.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth only. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, and all household chemicals/acids. Store separately from harder stones to prevent scratching. Keep dry as it is porous.
Rarity & Value
Relatively common, though high-quality specimens with dramatic banding or large size command higher prices. Usually inexpensive to moderately priced.
Special Characteristics
Distinctive 'agated' banding and pseudo-malachite appearances. Occasionally found as pseudomorphs replacing Azurite crystals.
Lore & History
Used by Ancient Egyptians as early as 4000 BC for jewelry and ground into pigment/eye paint. Historically viewed as a stone of protection and transformation; traditionally associated with the Heart Chakra.