26.16 Ct. Cabochon Malachite from Russia

One beautiful opaque 26.16 carat oval shape green malachite with dimensions of 15.92 x 13.99 x 11.05 mm is presented here as an exceptional specimen for both collectors and custom jewelers. This gem has been cut as a cabochon to reveal the classic malachite banding and to maximize its visual impact. The cabochon dome height of 11.05 mm gives the stone a substantial presence, while the oval outline and the precise dimensions make it straightforward to design into a bezel set ring or a strong pendant. The Natural Gemstone Company sources and certifies this material from Russia, a region known historically for producing fine, richly colored malachite with well defined concentric and parallel banding. The fact that this piece is unenhanced is an important distinction in the market, and it arrives to you with no dyeing, impregnation, or stabilization, preserving the natural character and geological provenance that informed buyers value.

Color and pattern are the primary determinants of malachite quality, and this gem displays vivid color intensity that is uniformly saturated across the cabochon. The green ranges from deep forest tones to lively mid green layers and the banding shows excellent contrast and continuity, attributes that are prized for both display and wearable art. Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral and its layered formation often yields eye catching concentric or parallel bands that we call rosettes or striations. This specimen exhibits those desirable features in a way that is visually balanced and technically sound, with the banding following the oval form to create a pleasing optical flow. The vivid color intensity is not merely aesthetic, it indicates a high concentration of the copper bearing species and a clean crystalline deposition, qualities that are appreciated by educated buyers assessing long term desirability and market value.

Clarity in opaque stones like malachite is assessed differently than in transparent gems, and the clarity grade reported for this piece is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level. That grading describes minimal mineral inclusions or internal structural variations that may be perceptible when closely inspected without magnification, but do not detract from the overall visual appeal or structural integrity. In malachite, these internal features are often part of the natural banding rather than defects, and in this case the interplay of bands and very slight inclusions contributes to the unique character of the cabochon. The excellent polish on the dome accentuates the stone s luster and band delineation, creating a silky sheen rather than a mirror gloss, which is typical and desirable for malachite. From a trade perspective, a combination of vivid color, fine banding, strong polish, and minimal inclusions is what elevates a cut malachite above more common pieces, and this gem meets those criteria.

The lack of enhancements is significant for both collectors and designers, because many lower grade malachites are stabilized or dyed to improve appearance, which can affect longevity and resale value. This specimen is natural in every respect, with no enhancement, which supports its authenticity and long term desirability. Origin matters with malachite, and Russian malachite, particularly material from the Ural region, has a storied reputation for deep green tones and fine banding that have been sought after for centuries. That provenance can add historical and aesthetic value, and it is why this piece will appeal to buyers who prefer provenance documented and verified by a reputable source. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the origin statement and the grading provided, and we are happy to supply additional documentation on request.

Because malachite is a softer mineral with a Mohs hardness around three and a half to four, care and mounting choices are practical considerations that affect both wearability and longevity. For jewelry the recommended setting is a protective bezel that shelters the stone edges and reduces exposure to hard knocks, while avoiding prong settings that leave the rim vulnerable. Malachite is sensitive to acids, prolonged exposure to water, and rapid temperature changes, and it should not be cleaned in ultrasonic cleaners or steamers. A gentle wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap if necessary is sufficient to maintain the excellent polish noted here. For the educated buyer who values geological interest as well as aesthetic appeal, this 26.16 carat oval cabochon offers a rare combination of size, vivid natural color, classic Russian origin, excellent polish, and minimal inclusions, and it represents a sound acquisition for use in museum quality jewelry or a curated collection. The Natural Gemstone Company is available to assist with custom mounting recommendations and to provide any further technical information or imagery required for appraisal or design.