📜 Key facts
| Age | The Congo copper belt rocks are Neoproterozoic (about 800–600 million years old); the malachite is much younger |
|---|---|
| Origin & sources | Katanga (Kolwezi and Likasi), Democratic Republic of the Congo. |
| Composition | Malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂) in concentric green bands |
How it forms
Copper-rich water seeping through the oxidized upper parts of copper deposits dripped from cavity roofs and built banded stalactites. Slices show bullseye 'eyes'. Malachite dust is harmful, so only cut or polish it wet.
Mineral data: see Malachite.
🌍 Where it's found
- Type locality
- Notable source / deposit
- Country of origin
Marker positions are approximate (region or locality level). Type localities from Wikidata; notable sources curated by Crystopedia.
✨ Stalactites
Learn more
Mineral variety
Green
Heart
Healing crystal









