Malachite with Copper Dragonfly Necklace

Malachite is a vibrant green gemstone with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use malachite, mining it as early as 4000 BCE for both jewelry and cosmetics.  It was also ground and used as cosmetics and was believed to be Cleopatras favorite.  She was even buried with a large vase of it to use in her afterlife.

The stone was believed to have protective qualities, often worn as amulets to ward off evil spirits. In the Middle Ages, malachite was also thought to bring good fortune and safeguard travelers. During the Renaissance period Malachite was also used as paint and it is thought that many of the green colors in Michelango’s Sistine Chapel were from malachite based oil paints. Its striking color and unique banding patterns made it highly prized by royalty and artisans throughout history, often appearing in intricate carvings and decorative pieces.

Geologically, malachite is a copper carbonate mineral formed in the upper oxidized zones of copper ore deposits. Its distinctive green color and swirling patterns come from its copper content, making it easily recognizable. Malachite forms in botryoidal, stalactitic, or fibrous masses, often alongside other copper-based minerals like azurite and chrysocolla. With a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4, malachite is relatively soft, requiring careful handling in jewelry. Its vivid color and natural beauty make it a favorite for statement pieces, adding a touch of history and elegance to any collection.