Malachite << MAL uh kyt >> is a beautiful green copper mineral. It consists of copper oxide, carbon dioxide, and water. Malachite is formed in layers that vary in color from apple green to dark gray-green. It is used chiefly as an ornamental stone. Fine pieces of malachite have been mined in the Ural Mountains of Russia and in Arizona. Other sources of the mineral include Africa, Australia, and Mexico.
In ancient times, people made bracelets of malachite because they thought it provided protection against disease, lightning, and witchcraft. Some scholars believe malachite is the stone the Israelites called soham. This stone was one of the sacred jewels in the high priest’s breastplate.
