1.7" Dark Green Malachite Polished Palm Stone Mineral Specimen Republic of the Congo
Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Weight: 1.3 Ounces
Dimensions: 1.7 Inches Long, 1.3 Inches Wide, 0.4 Inches Thick
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Malachite, a striking copper carbonate hydroxide mineral, is celebrated for its vivid green color and distinctive banded patterns. Valued for millennia, it has been used as a pigment, ornamental stone, and a source of copper. Morocco has become a prominent source of high-quality malachite, offering specimens highly prized by collectors, artisans, and jewelry makers worldwide. Its rich green hues and intricate patterns make Moroccan malachite a standout mineral in both historical and contemporary contexts.
The geological formation of malachite is intrinsically linked to the presence of copper deposits. It typically forms in the oxidized zones of copper ore bodies, where copper sulfides react with carbon dioxide and water. This process, often occurring near the Earth's surface, results in the precipitation of malachite. The characteristic banding observed in malachite is a consequence of variations in the concentration of copper, water, and other impurities during its formation, leading to successive layers of different shades of green or even concentric patterns. The specific conditions of temperature, pressure, and chemical environment dictate the crystal habit and overall appearance of the malachite.
Morocco's terrain is abundant in minerals, notably copper deposits essential for malachite creation. With a mining tradition spanning centuries, a variety of minerals have been mined for local use and trade. Moroccan malachite is prized for its vibrant hues and detailed banding, attracting collectors and artisans alike. These malachite deposits are typically found in well-known copper mining areas featuring geological conditions like fault and shear zones and hydrothermal activity. The presence of carbonate-rich rocks, such as limestone, also supports malachite formation by supplying necessary carbonate ions.
