Malachite

Malachite is usually found in opaque green masses. Its color is due to the copper content. A malachite crystal is too small to cut. However, the massive stone is carved or polished in many ways to reveal the alternating bands of light and dark green. In the past, malachite was worn to ward off illness and danger. The rough stone shows concentric green to near-black banding. It is common to find malachite stone as a botryoidal habit.

Occurrence

Malachite occurs in small quantities around the globe. However, it is mined in large quantities in copper-mining areas. Zaire is the most important producer.

Malachite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 3.80
• Refractive Index: 1.80 (mean)
• Birefringence (DR): 0.025
• Luster: Vitreous to silky
• Crystal Structure: Monoclinic
• Composition: Copper hydroxycarbonate
• Hardness: 4

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Birthstone

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