TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Malaquita Estalactita

Malaquita is a mineral with formula Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂, in the Carbonatos group. This specimen comes from Mina Shilu, Distrito de Yangchun, Provincia de Guangdong, China and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.

Malaquita Estalactita from Mina Shilu, Distrito de Yangchun, Provincia de Guangdong, China — Terrium

Description

Complete stalactitic column of malachite, of intense dark-green colour and velvety botryoidal surface. The slender structure culminates in a floral expansion that reinforces its sculptural character. Perfectly vertical specimen without fractures, with high aesthetic value.

About Malaquita

A secondary copper mineral, malachite commonly forms in the oxidised zones of copper deposits. Its intense green colour and botryoidal or fibrous habit have made it one of the most valued minerals since antiquity.

About the locality

The Shilu Mine is one of China’s best-known historic deposits for copper and cobalt minerals. Although worked primarily for its metal ores, it has produced spectacular stalactitic malachite specimens, highly regarded on the international market.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0100
Composition
Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂
Name
Malaquita
Variety
Estalactita
Group
Carbonatos
Category
Estélites
Mine
Mina Shilu
District / Municipality
Distrito de Yangchun
Province
Provincia de Guangdong
Country
China
Size (cm)
7.5 x 2.5 x 2
Weight
37.6 g
Acquired
2025
Etymology
From the Greek "malachē" (mallow), in allusion to the green colour of the plant’s leaves.
Quality
Top
Value trend
Al alza

Related specimens

← Back to Terrium catalogue