Malachite

Malachite is a very popular gemstone composed of copper carbonate. ^[1]

Malachite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Malachite:

• Transparency: Malachite can be opaque or translucent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, malachite is monoclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, malachite can be adamantine, dull, silky or vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Malachite streaks green or light green.
• Hardness: Malachite's hardness ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 on the Moh's scale.
• Specific Gravity: Malachite's specific gravity ranges from 3.6 to 4.05.

Malachite: Background and Summary

Malachite is a mineral that is known for its beautiful green color. It is a secondary mineral that forms as a result of the weathering and oxidation of copper minerals. Malachite is typically found in copper deposits and is often associated with azurite, another copper mineral. It is commonly found in Africa, Russia, and Australia.

To identify malachite, one should look for its distinct green color and its characteristic banding pattern. The mineral has a hardness of 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft and can be easily scratched with a knife. Malachite also has a specific gravity of 3.6-4.0, which is relatively heavy for a non-metallic mineral. It is also known for its effervescence in acid, which means it will bubble and fizz when exposed to acid.

Malachite has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. In ancient Egypt, it was used as a pigment for paint and cosmetics. It was also used to make jewelry and decorative objects. Today, malachite is still used for jewelry and decorative objects, but it is also used in the production of semiconductors, as a pigment in paint, and as an additive in animal feed.