Necklace With Malachite
Necklace With Malachite
Physical Properties
Chemical Formula: Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂ (Copper Carbonate Hydroxide)
Color: Various shades of green, often with banded light and dark green patterns
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Hardness: 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale
Specific Gravity: 3.6 - 4.0
Transparency: Opaque
Luster: Vitreous to silky
Streak: Light green
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.655 - 1.909
Birefringence: None
Pleochroism: None
Fluorescence: None
Healing and Metaphysical Properties
Energy: Malachite is considered a stone of transformation and protection, believed to absorb negative energies and pollutants from the environment and the body.
Chakras: Primarily associated with the Heart Chakra
Emotional Healing: Thought to balance mood swings, heal emotional wounds, and promote emotional stability. It is also believed to enhance intuition and insight.
Physical Healing: Used in crystal healing practices to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration. It is also thought to help with arthritis, menstrual cramps, and detoxification of the liver.
Uses
Jewelry: Popular in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets due to its vibrant green color and unique banding patterns.
Decorative: Used in carvings, inlays, beads, and ornamental objects.
Industrial: Occasionally used in pigments and as a source of copper in some industrial processes.
Care
Cleaning: Can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Avoid exposure to acids, ammonia, hot water, and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Do not soak in water.
Durability: Malachite is relatively soft and can be scratched or damaged easily. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches and should be handled with care to avoid breaking or chipping.
Sources
Major Sources: Malachite is found worldwide, with significant deposits in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Zambia, Namibia, Australia, and the United States.
Identification Tips
Color and Pattern: Malachite's distinctive green color and banded patterns can aid in its identification. However, it can be confused with other green minerals such as chrysocolla or green jasper.
Testing: Gemological testing can help distinguish Malachite from similar-looking minerals through its specific gravity, refractive index, and unique banding patterns.
Malachite's striking color, healing properties, and historical significance make it a favored gemstone among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Its unique appearance and range of applications underscore its importance in both metaphysical practices and the gem trade.
Length: 44cm+5cm
Crystal: 1.5cm-3cm