OUR STONES
MALACHITE
Malachite is an opaque gemstone easy to recognize for its green color, which can go from pastel green to almost black. It has banded patterns that are formed during its growth and that make each gem unique.
It is a copper mineral that forms at shallow depths in the earth. Is normally found in limestone, a sedimentary rock that has a favorable chemical environment for the formation of carbonate minerals. Malachite is relatively soft, with 3,5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, so it requires a more gentle care.
This stone has been used in jewelry and as a sculptural material since antiquity. Some of the first deposits of malachite were found in Egypt and Israel over 400 years ago. In Egypt it represented life, renewal and fertility due to its green color. A green pigment made from ground malachite was used to paint the mummy coffins. This powder continued to be used throughout history, being highly popular during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance for frescos and tempera.
Malachite is also historically known as the merchant or salesman stone. For thousands of years it was believed that malachites supported business success, financial growth and prosperity. Merchants thought it was a protective stone and used it in their travels to be safe from danger.
As most opaque stones, it is often cut into cabochons for jewelry to maximise the visibility of its color and patterns. It can be found in many regions, there are deposits in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Russia, Australia and France.
Since no two malachites look alike due to their patterns, each has a different appeal and is one of a kind. The vivid color of malachite evokes the vitality of nature, transformation and prosperity. Malachite’s uniqueness makes it a beautiful and original gemstone for any piece of jewelry.
MADE IN ANTWERP
Our jewelry is entirely made in Antwerp, Belgium, by a team of experienced goldsmiths and artisans.
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