Malachite
Malachite is a mineral that has been used since ancient times as the pigment "rock green" in mineral paints; it is a secondary mineral that forms in the upper sections of copper deposits. It shares the same composition as the patina that forms on the surface of copper, and today, it is primarily produced in large quantities in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in Africa.
Malachite, characterized by its beautiful green banded patterns
Basic Information
| English Name | Malachite |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | Kujakuseki (Peacock Stone) |
| Chemical Formula | Cu2[(OH)2|CO3] |
| Classification | Monoclinic system |
| Hardness | 3.5–4.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.9 |
| Transparency | Opaque |
Characteristics & Varieties
- Banded Patterns: A copper secondary mineral featuring characteristic green banded patterns.
- Malachite Cat's Eye: When polished into a cabochon, it displays a cat's eye effect and a velvety luster.
- Chrysocolla Malachite: Malachite with spaces filled by chrysocolla.
- Crystal Form: Very rarely exhibits needle-like crystals visible to the naked eye.
Origin, Aliases, Treatments, & Similar Stones
Primary Origins: Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) and copper deposits worldwide.
Aliases: Pseudo-emerald, Sheen Malachite (those with a cat's eye effect).
Treatments: Impregnation (filling voids with resin), coating (to enhance luster).
Similar Stones: Pseudomalachite (often has a stronger bluish tint)
Note: It may exist in mixture with azurite as azur-malachite, and some portions may form through the alteration of azurite.