1.7" Dark Green Malachite Polished Palm Stone Mineral Specimen Republic of the Congo

Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo

Weight: 1.1 Ounces

Dimensions: 1.7 Inches Long, 1.3 Inches Wide, 0.3 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. With a history spanning millennia, it has been used as a pigment, ornamental stone, and source of copper. Morocco has become a prominent source of high-quality malachite, offering specimens that are 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 geological landscape is abundant in mineral resources, including substantial copper deposits, which are essential for malachite formation. With a mining history spanning centuries, the country has long supplied minerals for both domestic use and international trade. Moroccan malachite is prized for its vibrant green color, exceptional saturation, and intricate banding, making it highly sought after by collectors, artisans, and jewelry makers. These malachite deposits are typically located in established copper mining regions, where geological formations such as fault zones, shear zones, and areas with significant hydrothermal alteration promote the oxidation of copper ores. The presence of limestone and other carbonate-rich rocks further aids malachite formation by providing the necessary carbonate ions, resulting in specimens with stunning patterns and rich green hues.