Minerals · common
Malachite
Malachite is a vibrant green copper carbonate mineral known for its distinctive banded patterns. It has been used as a gemstone and pigment for thousands of years.
Also known as: green banded, copper mineral, russian stone.
Malachite properties at a glance
| Type | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Cu2CO3(OH)2 |
| Mohs hardness | 4 |
| Crystal system | monoclinic |
| Luster | silky |
| Streak | Pale green |
| Cleavage | Perfect |
| Fracture | Subconchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 4 |
| Transparency | opaque |
| Common colors | Green, Dark Green, Banded Green |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits when carbonated water reacts with copper minerals.
Mined in Egypt as early as 4000 BCE, malachite was used for jewelry, pigment, and eye shadow.
How to identify Malachite
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Malachite examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Malachite identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Malachite vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Malachite.
Where Malachite is found
Malachite is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Malachite worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $30 |
| Premium specimen | $200+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Decorative objects
- Pigment
Interesting facts
- Used as a green pigment in paints since ancient times
- The Russian tsars decorated entire rooms with malachite
- Ancient Egyptians believed it protected children
Care & safety
Treat Malachite as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Malachite FAQ
What is Malachite?
Malachite is a vibrant green copper carbonate mineral known for its distinctive banded patterns. It has been used as a gemstone and pigment for thousands of years.
How much is Malachite worth?
Entry-level Malachite specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $30, and premium pieces for $200 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Malachite?
Malachite has a Mohs hardness of 4. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not.
Where is Malachite found?
Notable sources of Malachite include Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Australia, USA, and Zambia. Forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits when carbonated water reacts with copper minerals..
What is Malachite used for?
Malachite is used for jewelry, decorative objects, and pigment.
