Malachite

3D Model

Malachite (Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂) is a copper hydroxy-carbonate and typically the product of hydrothermal alteration of copper sulphide ore minerals (chiefly chalcopyrite). It is similar in composition to azurite, but very different in colour, the difference in colour arising from the different coordination state of the copper ion. This spectacular specimen displays the common botryoidal habit of malachite.