Malachite

Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Mexico

Brilliant green copper carbonate with signature swirled and banded patterning.

Where it comes from

Malachite forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits and has been mined since antiquity. The Egyptians used it for inlay and pigment thousands of years ago. The largest current production comes from the Democratic Republic of Congo, with additional material from Russia, Mexico, Australia, and the American Southwest.

What makes it distinctive

Deep green color with distinctive banded or concentric ring patterns. Each malachite cabochon shows different patterning depending on how the rough was cut, with bullseyes, ripples, and swirls all common. The bold green pairs strikingly with sterling silver and brings a saturated color note to Southwestern jewelry that turquoise can't match.

How to identify it

Genuine malachite has unmistakable banded green patterning. Imitations exist but rarely capture the depth and contrast of real material. The stone is soft (Mohs 3.5 to 4), so cabochons are best in earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rings that take constant abrasion.