Malachite is a carbonate mineral. It often takes the form of a seashell in bright green colors, which are the result of the presence of copper atoms. The name “malachite” – “mellow green stone” – is Greek.
Malachite is a relatively soft stone, with a Mohs scale hardness of 3.5-4.0, which makes it ideal for the jewelry industry.
Malachite was used by the ancient Egyptians for makeup and in 18th and 19th century Russia to create elements used in the construction of royal palaces.
Malachite deposits are common in Australia, Namibia, Zaire, Russia and Arizona in the United States. In Israel, malachite can be found in the Timna Valley and the stone has even been dubbed the “Eilat stone.”
