Malachite Vs. Pyrite

Malachite is a very popular gemstone composed of copper carbonate.^[1] Pyrite is also a very popular gemstone (marcasite) and its chemical composition is iron sulfide.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Malachite and Pyrite

For a quick recap of the differences malachite and pyrite:

• While both malachite and pyrite can be opaque, malachite can be translucent.
• For chemical formulas, malachite is Cu2CO3(OH)2 while pyrite is FeS2.
• In terms of luster, malachite can be adamantine, dull, silky or vitreous while pyrite is metallic.
• While both malachite and pyrite streaks green, malachite streaks light green and pyrite streaks black or black green.
• Malachite can be commonly green while pyrite can be commonly yellow.
• Malachite's rarity is more rare than pyrite.
• Malachite's specific gravity is lower than pyrite - malachite ranges from 3.6 to 4.05 and pyrite ranges from 4.9 to 5.2.

Summary of Malachite

Malachite is a mineral that is known for its beautiful green color. It is a secondary mineral that forms as a result of the weathering and oxidation of copper minerals. Malachite is typically found in copper deposits and is often associated with azurite, another copper mineral. It is commonly found in Africa, Russia, and Australia.

Summary of Pyrite

Pyrite, also known as iron pyrite or fool's gold, is a mineral with a metallic luster and a brass-yellow color. It is composed of iron disulfide (FeS2) and is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and hydrothermal veins. Pyrite is often mistaken for gold due to its color and metallic appearance, but it is much less valuable than gold.

Table Comparison of Malachite vs Pyrite