Malachite Stone Beads
Malachite
beads are well known for their strikingly bright green color. Since
ancient period, these beads have been vigorously liked by people.
The prominent evidences about the uses of these beads in the ancient
period are obtained from the sculptures and vases of the Russian
Tsars. The texture of these beads is soft and therefore, these beads
require utmost care to protect their glossy finish. The basic green
color along with few other vivid greenish blends that are present in
these beads is due to the presence of copper carbonate. The
intensity of greenish hue that is present in these beads is
inversely proportionate to the amount of water. More will be the
quantity of water, lighter would be the intensity of greenish shed. These beads are delicate and thus easily get scratches or become dull. Therefore, it is very important to protect the beads from frequent temperature change, sharp blow and scratches. Due to their vivid green color, these beads have high demand in the jewelry industry. The main jewelry items in which these beads are applied are pendants, necklaces, rings, body jewelry, loose gems, earrings, jewelry sets, diamond jewelry etc. The major producing countries of these beads are Zaire, Namibia, Congo, England, Australia, Chile, U.S.A, Mexico, Zimbabwe etc.
Malachite Stone
Chemical Formula: Cu2(CO3)(OH)2
Mineral Name: Malachite
Color: Banded light and dark green
Hardness: 4.0
Specific Gravity: 3.80
Malachite derives its name from the Greek word for "mallow"meaning, a green herb. Its banded light and dark green designs are one-of-a-kind, and give it a unique ornamental quality. Malachite is sometimes coated with colorless wax, oil, or hardening agents to increase its durability and enhance its appearance. Malachite's fine acicular crusts and tufts are very popular that appear as a mat of thin hairs or as a carpet of green velvet. Malachite is found with many rare copper silicates, halides, phosphates, sulfates and carbonates such as duftite, libethenite, aurichalcite, sphaerocobaltite, kolwezite, shattuckite, atacamite, mixite, cornetite and much more.
Tumbled stones of malachite are very popular and beautiful figurines carved in malachite are highly sought after. Malachite is used in making exquisite jewelry. The stones inlayed in silver make a nice variance from the traditional turquoise jewelry. Other stones such as coral, mother-of-pearl, azurite, jasper and onyx are also used in association with malachite handcrafted jewelry.
The gemstone is found in the regions of Shaba, Congo; Tsumeb, Nambia; Ural mountains, Russia; Mexico; several sites in Australia; England and several localities in the Southwestern United States especially in Arizona, USA.
