Malachite from Congo

DESCRIPTION

11.9 Ounces

337 Grams

5 1/2” x 3 1/4” x 1 1/2"

Malachite is a green, opaque, copper-based mineral that is used in jewelry, decorative objects, and as a pigment in paints: 

• Composition

  Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula Cu2CO3(OH)2. It's formed when copper ore weathers and combines with water and carbon dioxide. 

• Appearance

  Malachite is typically banded in multiple shades of green and can have a subtle sheen. It has a silky luster when polished, but resins are often used to enhance the shine and protect the stone. 

• Uses

  Malachite has been used for centuries in jewelry and decorative objects. It's also used as a pigment in green paints and can indicate the presence of copper in geological exploration. 

• History

  Malachite has been used in jewelry since ancient Egypt. It was also used in ancient civilizations to ward off evil spirits. 

• Associated minerals

  Malachite is often found with azurite, another copper mineral that is blue in color. A mixture of the two minerals is called azurmalachite. 

• Hardness

  Malachite is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale. 

• Location

  Malachite can be found in China, Russia, the Congo, and Arizona.