Pseudomalachite
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Description
Dark waxy green crystals composed of basic copper phosphate. Pseudomalachite occurs naturally in the oxidation zones for copper ores. It resembles Malachite in appearance but lacks the characeristic light/dark banding of malachite. Pseudomalachite has been found in Zaire (Shaba), Slovakia (Libethen), Germany (Bavaria), France, Russia, Canada and the U.S. (Arizona).
Synonyms and Related Terms
basic copper phosphate; false malachite; ehlite; lunnite; Pseudomalachit (Deut.)
.PNG)
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Crystals = massive
- Fracture = conchoidal
- Cleavage = imperfect
- Luster = glassy
- Streak = bluish green
- Unlike malachite, pseudomalachite will not react with acids.
| Composition | Cu5(PO4)2(OH)4 |
|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 4.0-4.5 |
| Density | 3.6-4.34 g/ml |
| Molecular Weight | 542.68 |
| Refractive Index | 1.791; 1.856; 1.867 |
Resources and Citations
- MinDat: Pseudomalachite
- Naumova et al. Studies in Conservation 35:81-88, 1990