3.1" Dark Green Malachite Crystal Mineral Specimen Tiznit Province Morocco
Location: Tiznit Province, Morocco
Weight: 7.5 Ounces
Dimensions: 3.1 Inches Long, 1.8 Inches Wide, 1.7 Inches Thick
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Malachite, a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral, is renowned for its vibrant green color and distinctive banded patterns. Its historical significance spans millennia, serving as a pigment, an ornamental stone, and a source of copper. Morocco, in particular, has emerged as a significant source of high-quality malachite, contributing to its global availability and appreciation.
Malachite forms through a fascinating natural process linked to copper deposits, especially in the oxidized zones of copper ore. Here, copper sulfides combine with carbon dioxide and water near the Earth’s surface, creating beautiful malachite crystals. The iconic green banding you see results from shifting levels of copper, water, and other elements, forming layers with rich, varied greens and striking patterns. The unique temperature, pressure, and chemical conditions shape each crystal’s distinct form and appearance. Owning this mineral means embracing a captivating piece of Earth’s intricate artistry.
Morocco boasts a rich geological landscape teeming with mineral resources, including significant copper deposits, which are vital for malachite formation. With a mining history spanning centuries, Morocco has long supplied minerals for local use and international trade. Malachite from Morocco is prized for its vivid green color, striking banding, and intricate patterns, making it highly sought after by collectors and artisans alike. These malachite deposits are typically found in well-known copper mining regions, where geological formations such as fault zones, shear zones, and hydrothermal activity promote the oxidation of copper ores. Additionally, the presence of limestone and other carbonate-rich rocks provides essential carbonate ions, further supporting the formation of this captivating copper mineral.
