Malachite

Malachite is a beautiful green earth stone with black bands. It is beautiful in earrings, necklaces, and pendants.

Malachite is green with irregular black banding. It has a hardness of 4.

Malachite is especially fragile. Protect malachite from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean malachite in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Washing malachite in water will remove its finish.

Malachite is always coated with a protective polish. This polish will wash off. Imitation malachite has very regular black or white banding.

Malachite is found most everywhere. However, the most important mine is in Zaire.

Malachite is the anniversary gemstone for the 13th year of marriage.

Malachite is said to bring harmony into one's life.

It is said that malachite gives knowledge and patience.

Malachite was used as a children's talisman to ward off danger and illness. It is attached to infant's cradles.

Mining Malachite began as early as 4000 BC by ancient Egyptians.