Carbonate · Mohs 3.5–4
Malachite: Identification, Meaning & Care
Malachite is a copper carbonate mineral recognized by vivid green banding and botryoidal growth patterns.
Malachite properties
- Formula
- Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂
- Mineral group
- Carbonate
- Mohs hardness
- 3.5–4
- Color
- Bright to dark green, commonly banded
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Luster
- Silky to earthy or vitreous
- Cleavage / fracture
- Perfect in one direction
How to identify Malachite
- Natural pieces commonly show irregular light and dark green bands.
- Plastic imitation may feel unusually light and display repetitive bands.
- Dust from cutting or sanding should not be inhaled.
Malachite care
Water
Keep dry and avoid acids, salt water, steam, and ultrasonic cleaning.
Light & heat
Color is generally stable; heat and chemicals remain concerns.
Storage
Store separately from harder materials and cushion sharp edges, points, or cleavage-prone faces.
Traditional meaning
Historically valued as pigment and ornament; modern folklore often links it with transformation.
Traditional symbolism is presented as cultural history or personal practice, not as a scientific or medical claim.
Sources & further checking
- Mindat mineral database
- GIA Gem Encyclopedia
- RRUFF mineral database
- International Mineralogical Association
See our full methodology.