Malachite Sphere Large 11.3cm

Malachite crystals for sale from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

This gorgeous, incredibly large Malachite Sphere measuring 11.3cm in diameter displays a stunning mixture of deep and light greens, with striking banded patterns and concentric structures resembling eyes. 

What Is Malachite Made Of?

Malachite is a green copper-based carbonate mineral. 

This mineral often forms in a botryoidal shape, displaying globular, grape-like structures when mined. 

Where Does Malachite Come From?

Much of today's Malachite is sourced from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, however Malachite is also sourced from other locations, including the Ural Mountains of Russia.

Malachite History

Malachite was named in ancient times after the mallow-plant, whose green leaves were similar to the verdant hues of Malachite.

Malachite Uses In Industry And Art

Until a few centuries ago, Malachite was an important copper ore: nowadays, there are more cost-effective copper ores available, so Malachite is rarely used for this purpose anymore. 

Malachite was also crushed and used as a green pigment: it was prized for its intense colour, which did not easily fade over time or when exposed to light. 

In the 15th and 16th centuries, Malachite supplied by the Ural Mountains in Russia was used as a pigment for paintings, and in Ancient Egypt, Malachite supplied by mines in the Suez was used as a pigment for eye shadow. 

Malachite In Ancient Egypt

As well as being used to make eye-shadow, Malachite was an important cultural symbol in Ancient Egypt. 

Represented by the hieroglyph for "wadj", Malachite was seen as symbolic of life, fertility, and resurrection: for this reason, Malachite was often made into jewellery to be worn as amulets and talismans of protection and good luck. 

Egyptian tombs were often decorated with Malachite to symbolise rebirth and the after-life: an Egyptian idea of paradise was even named the "Fields of Malachite". 

Malachite In Other Cultures

Malachite has been important culturally across the globe, having been found in places as diverse as Mexico and Russia. 

In Spain, a common superstitious belief used to be that Malachite could be worn by children at night as a talisman for good sleep, and protection from nightmares and evil spirits. 

Russian folklore is also rich with allusions to Malachite, and Russian Cathedrals are heavily decorated with this striking mineral. 

Malachite Crystal Healing Properties

Malachite is believed by crystal healers to be a highly effective protection stone. 

How Hard Is Malachite?

Measuring 3 to 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Malachite is a relatively soft mineral: consequently, great care should be taken when handling it to ensure it does not get damaged. 

Malachite Crystal Collections

It is difficult to acquire high-grade Malachite, therefore why not add some of this gorgeous mineral to your crystal collection now? 

Buy Malachite online now at Madagascan Direct