TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Malaquita Acicular

Malaquita is a mineral with formula Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂, in the Carbonatos group. This specimen comes from Kaokoveld, Kunene, Namibia and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.

Malaquita Acicular from Kaokoveld, Kunene, Namibia — Terrium

Description

Radial spray of malachite arising from the centre of massive white quartz. Well-defined green needles. Interesting under a loupe.

About Malaquita

Malachite is a copper hydroxycarbonate that forms by alteration of primary copper minerals in the oxidised zone of deposits.

About the locality

The Kaokoveld Mountains are one of Namibia's mineralogical frontiers. It is an arid, remote area known for producing some of the finest dioptase, shattuckite and malachite specimens in the world.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0376
Composition
Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂
Name
Malaquita
Variety
Acicular
Group
Carbonatos
Category
Cavella
Matrix
Cuarzo blanco masivo
Province
Kaokoveld
Region
Kunene
Country
Namibia
Size (cm)
5.5 x 4.9 x 3.7
Weight
90 g
Acquired
2025
Etymology
From the Greek "malakhē" ('mallow'), for its green colour.
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

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