malachite

[mal-uh-kahyt]

noun

1. a green mineral, basic copper carbonate, Cu 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 , an ore of copper, used for making ornamental articles.

2. a ceramic ware made in imitation of this.

malachite

/ ˈmæləˌkaɪt /

noun

1. a bright green mineral, found in veins and in association with copper deposits. It is a source of copper and is used as an ornamental stone. Composition: hydrated copper carbonate. Formula: Cu 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 . Crystal structure: monoclinic

malachite

1. A bright-green monoclinic mineral occurring as a mass of crystals (an aggregate) with smooth or botryoidal (grape-shaped) surfaces. It is often concentrically banded in different shades of green. Malachite often occurs together with the mineral azurite in copper deposits. Chemical formula: Cu ₂ CO ₃ (OH) ₂ .

Word History and Origins

Origin of malachite¹

1350–1400; < Greek malách ( ē ) mallow + -ite ¹; replacing Middle English melochites < Middle French melochite, representing Latin molochītis < Greek molochîtis, derivative of molóchē, variant of maláchē

Word History and Origins

Origin of malachite¹

C16: via Old French from Latin molochītēs, from Greek molokhitis mallow-green stone, from molokhē mallow

Example Sentences

Their wings, in shades of lavender, green and red, represented certain crystals and traits: amethyst as one of calm and purity, malachite as one of protection and rose garnet for healing and love.

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They come in three fresh designs: malachite, mushrooms and what’s being called a graphic version of wicker.

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It is made of silver, lapis lazuli, malachite and pink coral.

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The gothic-style brooch — composed of silver, lapis lazuli, malachite and coral — is now by far the most prized piece in her modest collection.

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The chrysanthemum leaves, the chartreuse of the teapot inlay and the antique bronze are different shades of green — but all come from malachite.

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Related Words

• blue-green 
• olive