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Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Malachite and Azurite?

Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Malachite and Azurite?

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The main difference between malachite and azurite lies in their colors and chemical compositions. Here are the key differences between the two minerals:

  • Color: Malachite has a bright green color, while azurite has an azure blue color.
  • Chemical Composition: Malachite's chemical composition is Cu2CO3(OH)2, and azurite's chemical composition is Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2.

Both malachite and azurite are carbonate minerals, share a monoclinic crystal structure, and are copper-containing minerals. They also have fairly perfect cleavage and are often found together in nature. However, they have different appearances, with malachite exhibiting characteristic banding patterns and azurite being a deep blue mineral. Both minerals are valued for their use in jewelry and as semi-precious stones.

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  • What is the Difference Between Malachite and Azurite?
  • Comparative Table: Malachite vs Azurite

    • Comparative Table: Malachite vs Azurite

    Here is a table comparing the differences between malachite and azurite:

    Property Malachite Azurite
    Chemical Formula Cu2CO3(OH)2 Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2
    Color Bright green Azure blue
    Crystal Structure Monoclinic Monoclinic
    Cleavage Fairly perfect Fairly perfect
    Hardness 3.5 - 4 3.5 - 4
    Streak Green or light green Blue or light blue
    Luster Dull or vitreous Dull or vitreous
    Transparency Opaque, translucent Transparent, translucent, opaque

    Both malachite and azurite are carbonate minerals containing copper, and they often form together in copper ores. However, they have distinct colors, with malachite being bright green and azurite being azure blue.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.