1.5" Dark Green Malachite Polished Palm Stone Mineral Specimen Republic of the Congo
Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Weight: 1.1 Ounces
Dimensions: 1.5 Inches Long, 1.2 Inches Wide, 0.4 Inches Thick
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Malachite, a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral, is renowned for its vibrant green color and distinctive banded patterns. Its historical significance spans millennia, serving as a pigment, an ornamental stone, and a source of copper. Morocco, in particular, has emerged as a significant source of high-quality malachite, contributing to its global availability and appreciation.
Malachite, a striking copper carbonate mineral, forms primarily in the oxidized zones of copper ore deposits. It develops when copper sulfides react with carbon dioxide and water, often near the Earth’s surface, resulting in the precipitation of this vibrant green mineral. The iconic banding and concentric patterns of malachite occur due to variations in copper concentration, water content, and trace impurities during its formation. Temperature, pressure, and the chemical environment play a key role in determining its crystal structure and overall appearance, making each specimen unique. Ideal for collectors, artisans, and jewelry enthusiasts, malachite is celebrated for its rich green hues and intricate patterns.
Morocco is well-known for its rich mineral resources, especially copper deposits, which are essential for the formation of malachite. With a long history of mining, the country has been producing minerals for both local use and trade. Malachite from Morocco is admired for its deep color and detailed banding, making it highly valued by collectors and artisans alike. These beautiful specimens are typically found in areas with active copper mining, where geological conditions such as fault zones and hydrothermal activity promote the oxidation of copper ores. The presence of limestone and other carbonate rocks also plays a key role in malachite’s development by supplying necessary carbonate ions.
