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Malachite
The name is derived from the Greek malakhe,
meani "mallow," evidently because of the color.
Appearance The color is always green, varying
from mid green which can be described as mallow green, a very
dark, even blackish green. These tones appear, ae rule, in
alternate stripes (transverse to the length of tr crystal),
which are obviously successive layers of concr tion and have
an arrangement similar to that of the veins other concretions,
with broad curves, dome shapes, ar undulations, generally
following the direction of the out, surface of the stone.
It has a fairly low hardness, but ca: acquire exceptional
(though not very durable) polish. It easily damaged by acids.
Large blocks are used for slab balusters, and other sculpted
objects. It is also employ( for mosaics, boxes, figurines,
cabochons, and beads.
Distinctive features The green
color, veining, shape .: the veins, and polish make it unmistakable.
Occurrence In the past, most malachite came
from th Soviet Union (Urals), but nowadays large quantities
ar also obtained from Zaire, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Chile, th
United States, and Australia.
Value It is not often used as a gem and has
a very lo;. value. It is much admired, however, as an ornamental
ma. terial and is quite highly priced for its category, especiali.
when the attractiveness of the material is matched by fin
workmanship.
Simulants and synthetics
It has not been imitated and - not produced synthetically.
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