5.31 Ct. Cabochon Malachite from Russia

This listing presents a single opaque malachite cabochon weighing 5.31 carats, with a classic oval outline measuring 12.06 x 10.10 x 4.36 mm. The gem exhibits a cabochon cut, featuring a smooth convex crown and a carefully flattened pavilion, executed to emphasize its rhythmic banding. Color grading for this specimen is bluish green with an intense overall color saturation, and the clarity has been evaluated as very slightly included at eye level. The surface finish is described as excellent polish, and there are no treatments or enhancements applied, preserving the natural character of the material. Origin is documented as Russia, which is consistent with the strong concentric banding and saturated green tones typically associated with specimens from that region. The Natural Gemstone Company presents this stone as a ready to set cabochon, photographed to illustrate the banding and surface luster under controlled lighting.

From a lapidary perspective, the proportions of this oval cabochon demonstrate intentional control of profile and symmetry, with the dome height creating balanced visual mass relative to the length and width. The height to length ratio is approximately thirty six percent, and the height to width ratio is approximately forty three percent, numbers that indicate a medium to high dome suitable for showcasing the banding without appearing squat or overly domed. The cutter oriented the transverse and concentric bands to flow across the major axis, producing continuous, parallel banding that reads well when set in an oval bezel. Edges and junctions are well faceted in the sense of precise trimming rather than faceted planes, the girdle equivalent presents a uniform thickness which aids in consistent bezel seating, and the base has been flattened sufficiently to provide stability in mounting, while still preserving the natural material for depth and weight. The polish quality is a result of progressive finishing stages, culminating in fine abrasive compounds that bring out maximum reflection without over polishing, which would risk softening band contrast.

Color and pattern characteristics are central to malachite evaluation, and this piece displays a deep bluish green ground with alternating lighter and darker bands that are both narrow and broad in places, providing a dynamic visual rhythm. Intense color intensity in this category refers to saturated chroma with minimal pallor in the lighter bands, and the bluish green hue here leans slightly toward the cooler end of the malachite spectrum, enhancing perceived richness. The banding is compositional, produced by rhythmic precipitation of copper carbonate hydroxide during mineral growth, and the cutter exploited this inherent layering to achieve a pleasing, concentric motif. Because malachite is opaque, light interaction is governed by surface reflection and subsurface scattering within the fibrous aggregates, rather than by internal transmission, and the excellent polish maximizes specular reflection which enhances perceived luster and depth of field across the bands.

Clarity evaluation for opaque materials differs from transparent gem evaluation, and the very slightly included assessment at eye level indicates only minor surface or near surface irregularities when viewed without magnification. In this specimen inclusions appear as subtle textural variations within the banded layers, consistent with natural growth interruptions and fine mineral admixtures, rather than fractures or foreign fillings. The absence of enhancement confirms this is untreated malachite, not stabilized, dyed, or resin impregnated, which is an important consideration given malachite sensitivity to acids and household chemicals. For durability guidance, malachite has a Mohs hardness around three and a half to four, and displays perfect to uneven cleavage planes in some orientations, therefore protective mounting strategies such as a full bezel or collet setting are recommended to reduce edge exposure and mechanical risk. Cleaning should be performed using a soft cloth and mild soapy water, avoiding steam and ultrasonic cleaning, and avoiding contact with acids or harsh solvents to protect both surface polish and natural patination.

The Natural Gemstone Company offers this Russian malachite cabochon as a demonstrably well cut and finished example of the species, suitable for use in bespoke jewelry applications where natural banding and rich color are paramount. The stone is particularly suited to a low bezel ring, a pendant where the oval face can align with the grain, or as a focal piece in a brooch that benefits from the strong linear banding. From a procurement standpoint, the documented origin and no enhancement status simplify disclosure and valuation. The combination of disciplined lapidary work, intense bluish green color, and preserved natural character make this cabochon an attractive option for connoisseurs and craftsmen alike, and The Natural Gemstone Company is available to provide additional imagery, setting recommendations, and provenance documentation upon request, to assist in selection and integration into finished pieces.