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16.48: Malachite

  • Page ID
    4735
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    Malachite
    Chemical composition Cu2(CO3)(OH)2
    Colors Banded light and dark green
    Crystal system Monoclinic
    Habit Botryoidal, stalactitic, globular
    Cleavage Distinct
    Fracture Conchoidal, splintery
    Hardness 3.5-4
    Optic nature Biaxial -
    Refractive index 1.655 - 1.909
    Birefringence 0.254
    Dispersion Weak
    Specific gravity 3.60 - 4.05
    Lustre Dull, silky, vitreous
    Transparency Translucent to opaque
    Pleochroism None
    Sources Australia, Namibia, Russia, USA, Zambia, Zaire

    Sources

    • Gemstones - Properties, identification and use (2008) - Arthur Thomas ISBN 9781845376024

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