26.16 Ct. Cabochon Malachite from Russia

This oval, opaque malachite weighs 26.16 carats, and measures 15.92 by 13.99 by 11.05 millimeters, presenting a substantial physical presence relative to its carat weight, and offering a broad surface area for pattern display. The stone has been fashioned as a cabochon, a deliberate choice that respects malachite’s fibrous structure and pronounced banding, and that maximizes the visibility of its internal patterns and color saturation. The cabochon dome rises to a height of 11.05 millimeters, which is significant for this gem size, creating a three dimensional canvas that emphasizes the concentric and angular banding typical of high quality malachite. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, these inclusions are natural character marks within the stone and they do not interrupt the overall visual cohesion or structural integrity. There are no enhancements, the material is entirely natural, and the origin is Russia, a source known historically for malachite specimens with deep tonal contrast and robust color development.

Color performance is the defining attribute of this piece, its vivid green intensity reads as saturated and lively across the faceted mass of the cabochon, and it exhibits a complex interplay of mid tone verdant greens and deeper forest bands. Russian malachite often displays strong, well defined banding with clear tonal transitions, and this specimen exemplifies that quality, the bands present high contrast that reads well at a distance, and reveals fine micro banding under closer inspection. The green is vivid rather than muted, allowing the stone to occupy center stage in a design, and the color remains consistent under varied lighting, which is important for wearable pieces that move through daylight and artificial light. Because malachite is opaque, color intensity and band contrast are the primary drivers of aesthetic value, and this stone’s saturation and pattern coherence make it highly effective at commanding visual attention in any setting.

Craftsmanship details are central to the stone’s final appeal, the cabochon was shaped to an elongated oval proportion of approximately 1.14 to 1, and this proportion supports both ring and pendant formats with a balanced visual footprint. The cutter preserved the orientation of the natural banding to present a harmonious pattern across the table, avoiding awkward termination lines at the girdle, and ensuring that the lapidary flow follows the most attractive lines of the material. Achieving an excellent polish on malachite requires controlled abrasion and progressive fining due to the mineral’s relative softness, Mohs hardness around 3.5 to 4, and its susceptibility to cleavage and structural variability, and the finished surface here is smooth and reflective without glazing that can obscure the subtle band boundaries. The dome profile and polish together produce a soft, silky luster that reads as saturated color rather than specular highlights, which is desirable for cabochon work that aims to present pattern and tone rather than facet scintillation.

When considering setting options and design dialogues, this malachite will stand out in any jewelry configuration because the color and banding become compositional elements within the piece. A low bezel will protect the stone while framing the oval silhouette, and a high polished bezel in yellow gold will warm the green and create classic contrast, whereas a white metal bezel will offer a contemporary, graphic presentation, allowing the vivid green to read almost like a painted center. In cuff or brooch applications, the proportion and weight allow for secure inlay work or raised settings with protective edges, and because the piece is untreated and originates from a reputable Russian source, it also has provenance value for collectors and designers who require natural materials. Practical care considerations should guide the setting, the relatively low hardness means that protection from abrasion and sharp knocks is essential, and avoidance of acids and ultrasonic cleaners will preserve the polish and surface integrity. The Natural Gemstone Company presents this 26.16 carat Russian malachite as a collector grade cabochon, with transparent disclosure of its natural inclusions and its unenhanced status, and we invite serious buyers and designers to examine the visual impact this stone can provide in bespoke jewelry, where its vivid color and refined workmanship will ensure it is the focal point of any creation.