Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral, with the formula Cu2CO3(OH)2. It is opaque and a green banded mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. The most common forms are botryoidal, fibrous, or stalagmitic masses. They usually occur deep underground in fractures and spaces where the water table and hydrothermal fluids provide the means for chemical precipitation.
It has been extensively used throughout history (around 3800 years to be a bit more precise) as a semi precious stone in carvings, from small pieces of jewellery to large Urns and even huge plinths such as those in the Malachite Room of the Winter Palace, St Petersburg.
Origin: China
Sent as a polished stone approximately 1.5 to 2.5cm long. Polished natural piece, not commercially synthesized.