Malachite
Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide that forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits — particularly in the American Southwest. Bisbee, Arizona produced legendary malachite specimens alongside some of the world's finest azurite. The vivid green banding is used in decorative objects from Russia's Malachite Room in the Winter Palace to Fabergé eggs.
Physical Properties
Chemical Formula
Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂
Hardness (Mohs)
3.5–4
Color
Bright green, banded dark and light green
Luster
Vitreous to silky
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Streak
Light green
Cleavage
Perfect in one direction
Specific Gravity
3.6–4.0
🔍 Field Identification Tips
Unmistakable bright green color. Banding (concentric rings when cut). Soft (hardness 3.5–4 — copper coin scratches it). Fizzes in acid (carbonate mineral). Often found with azurite (blue) and chrysocolla (blue-green). Copper mineralization is always the host environment.
Varieties & Forms
📍 Where to Find Malachite in the US
Uses & Applications
Decorative carvings, jewelry, inlay, historical green pigment. Commonly associated with copper ore deposits.
💰 Collector Value Guide
Tumbled: $2–$20. Banded slab: $20–$200. Quality botryoidal specimens: $50–$1,000. Azurite-malachite combinations: $100–$5,000.
Find Malachite With Our Tools
Use the We Lick Rocks app to identify specimens, find dig sites, and connect with local rockhounds.