Malachite w/ Chrysocolla
$12.00 - $24.00
Malachite and chrysocolla form in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits. As copper ores oxidize, they react with carbonate and silicate minerals in the surrounding rock to form these secondary minerals. The process involves the leaching and redeposition of copper ions, leading to the creation of vibrant green and blue mineral aggregates.
Malachite's composition is: Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂ (copper carbonate hydroxide) and Chrysacolla's composition is: (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O (hydrated copper silicate). Malachite's crystal system is monoclinic as where Chrysacolla's crystal system is Orthorhombic (often forms amorphous or cryptocrystalline aggregates).
This mineral combination is most commonly associated with arid, desert environments where copper ores are prevalent. Notable localities include: DR of Congo, Peru, Israel and Arizona US.
MEASUREMENT DETAILS:
MINERAL #1 - 3"L x 2.50"W x 1.50"H
MINERAL #2 - 2.50"L x 1.50"W x .75"H
MINERAL #3 - 2.75"L x 2"W x 1.25"H
MINERAL #4 - 3.25"L x 1.50"W x 1.25"H
MINERAL #5 - 2.75"L x 2"W x 1.25"H