| The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001-07. |
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| malachite |
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(m l´ k t) (KEY) , a mineral, the green basic carbonate of copper occurring in crystals of the monoclinic system or (more usually) in masses. It is translucent or opaque; the luster is silky, vitreous, adamantine, or dull. It takes a good polish. An important ore of copper, it also serves as a gem and for various ornamental purposes and, when finely ground, as a pigment. It is found associated with other ores of copper (especially azurite) in various parts of the United States and in Chile, Russia, Congo (Kinshasa), Zimbabwe, and Australia. |
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| | | The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright © 2007 Columbia University Press. |
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