# Malachite

> Malachite is a green copper mineral with concentric bands (3.5-4 on Mohs); very decorative but soft, sensitive to acids and to water.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/malachite/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-28
- Updated: 2026-09-28
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/malaquita/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Malachite is a copper carbonate of intense green with unmistakable concentric bands and circles. It has been used since ancient Egypt as a pigment and in jewelry, but it is soft and delicate.

## Properties

- **Composition:** basic copper carbonate.
- **Hardness:** 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale.
- **Color:** green with lighter and darker bands.
- **Origins:** Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Zambia and Australia.
- **Treatments:** usually stabilized with resin.

## Uses in jewelry

- Cabochons, beads and pendants.
- Studio and ethnic pieces.
- Carvings and decorative objects.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- Unmistakable pattern.
- Easy to carve.
- Affordable.

### Limitations

- Soft and scratches.
- Reacts with acids.
- Does not tolerate prolonged water or ultrasonic.

## Care and cleaning

- Wipe with a damp cloth and dry at once.
- Avoid acids, sweat and perfumes.
- Malachite dust is toxic when cutting: wear a mask.

## See also

- [Gemstones in jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/en/gemstones-in-jewelry/)
- [Turquoise](https://www.711grados.com/en/turquoise/)