4.68 Ct. Cabochon Malachite from Russia

This 4.68 carat bluish green malachite from Russia is a finely proportioned oval cabochon measuring 12.06 by 10.00 by 3.80 millimeters, and it exemplifies the attributes that educated gemstone buyers seek, namely natural origin, stable appearance, and pleasing material quality. The gem is opaque by nature, which is characteristic of malachite, and displays intense color intensity with well defined banding that runs across the dome in shades of deep green and slightly bluish green, an effect that conveys both visual depth and pattern integrity. Clarity has been evaluated at eye level as very slightly included, which in an opaque gem like this means that any internal matrix features or micro fissures are minimal and do not detract from the primary aesthetic of the piece, and the cabochon cut was specifically chosen to maximize the banding rhythm and surface glow. The polish is excellent, resulting in a smooth reflective surface that emphasizes the stone s satiny luster, and importantly there have been no enhancements performed, confirming that the color and surface condition are wholly natural. For buyers who prioritize provenance and treatment transparency, the Russian origin is significant, as historical deposits in the Ural region are known for producing malachite with strong banding and saturated hues that command attention in both collector and designer markets.

The journey of this malachite from mine to market is traceable and illustrative of careful stewardship at every stage, beginning in a Russian copper deposit where malachite forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper veins, consolidating over geological time into layered botryoidal and banded masses. Miners working in that region extract rough material with an eye toward preserving large, well banded sections, and the rough for this cabochon was selected for its continuity of color and pattern rather than for sheer size alone. The selected piece then moved to an experienced lapidary who oriented the stone to present the most attractive banding across the face, and the cutter chose an oval cabochon profile because it best conveys the linear band character while providing a comfortable surface for bezel or prong settings. Cutting and shaping were completed using traditional lapidary techniques, with progressive grits to refine the form and a final hand polish that yields the excellent gloss noted in the description. At The Natural Gemstone Company our quality control includes a hands on inspection of dimensions, weight, and surface finish, and a treatment and origin verification to confirm that the stone is natural malachite from Russia and that no dyes or stabilizing resins have been applied. This documented provenance and the absence of enhancement are critical for collectors and designers who require authenticity in their inventory and in commissioned work.

For jewelers and discerning collectors this stone offers multiple attributes that justify its appeal and market value, beginning with its compact yet substantial 4.68 carat weight that sits perfectly between dainty and statement scale for rings, pendants, and bespoke inlay work. The oval cabochon profile, combined with the modest height of 3.80 millimeters, makes it ideal for bezel settings that protect the surface while showcasing the characteristic malachite banding, and the very slightly included clarity at eye level means the stone will read as clean in surface facing applications, with natural inclusions serving as evidence of authenticity rather than defects. Malachite requires considered care because of its relative softness, with a Mohs hardness around three and a half to four, and it is best set in protected mounts and kept away from acids, strong heat, and ultrasonic cleaners, guidance we provide to every buyer to maintain the excellent polish and color integrity. From a market perspective, Russian malachite with intense color and clear banding is sought after, and for buyers who value untreated, well documented material this cabochon represents both a beautiful decorative element and a responsible acquisition. If you are seeking a ready to set gem that combines geological interest, lapidary craftsmanship, and verifiable origin, The Natural Gemstone Company presents this malachite as a transparent and compelling option.