History of Malachite

Malachite is a green copper carbonate mineral. Its name may come from the Greek word "malache", meaning "mallow", because malachite's color is similar to that of mallow leaves. Alternatively, the name may have originated from the Greek word "malakos", meaning "soft", because malachite is soft compared to other minerals. Malachite is used as a source of copper and as a gemstone. It usually occurs in association with bluish copper deposits. Malachite usually has distinctive concentric bands of different shades of green, which makes it an interesting gemstone. It usually occurs in aggregated forms, such as grape-like clusters. Malachite dates back to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who used it to make jewelry and amulets and ground it into powder for eye shadow. Malachite was also used as a pigment in green paint. Many years ago, huge blocks of malachite, some weighing up to 20 tons, were found in Russia and used by the Tsars to decorate their palaces. However, the most important contemporary source of malachite is Africa.

Malachite Origin

The largest malachite deposits occurred in Russia, where blocks of over 20 tons were found. Today, however, most malachite is mined in Zaire, Australia, Chile, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Arizona.

Malachite Colors

The most common color of malachite is dark or light green, which is its primary color. However, malachite may also show shades of blue, gray, brown, or a mixture of these colors.

Malachite cuts and shapes

Malachite is often cut into cabochons for rings, earrings or fancy shapes for pendants. It can also be carved into intricate forms such as cameos. Spherical malachite makes charming necklaces, bracelets and earring beads. Malachite is sometimes faceted or tumbled. When cutting malachite, the gemologist cuts it to show off the stripes.

Malachite Benefits

As early as 4,000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians exploited the mines between Suez and Sinai, utilizing malachite as an amulet for children, believing that by hanging a piece of malachite from a child's cradle, all evil spirits would be exorcised. In some parts of Germany, it was believed that those who wore malachite could avoid the threat of death. Malachite stone hairpin artifacts existed in China during the Yin Dynasty in the thirteenth century BC. Its vibrant, slightly blue-green color makes it one of the most attractive decorative materials among minerals.