Malachite
ID: 40
Malachite
Chemical Formula
Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂
Hardness (Mohs)
3.5 - 4
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Streak
Light green
Luster
Silky, vitreous, dull, or earthy
Diaphaneity
Opaque to translucent in thin slices
Color
Various shades of green, often banded
Crystal Habit / Mode of Occurrence
Typically massive, botryoidal, or stalactitic. Prismatic crystals are rare and usually acicular (needle-like).
Fun Facts
Malachite has been used as a pigment in green paints for centuries. You can often see its beautiful green color in antique paintings!