Interior Trend: Rock On With Malachite

Deep variated bands of intense green make malachite, a semiprecious mineral, one of the more fascinating natural showstoppers for interiors and decorative objects.  Malachite goes beyond a color trend. Unlike most minerals which we associate with linear or crystal-like formations, malachite has the distinct characteristic of bulbous curves which has made it a popular stone for interiors throughout time.

Protective Powers  The repeating concentric circular rings resemble a peacock’s eye and have been felt to offer protection and therapeutic properties as far back as ancient Egypt.

• balance in relationships
• success of business
• placed in the bedroom to keep nightmares away
• protects from the evil eye
• releases negativity

Malachite’s Royal Heritage

Normally we associate purple or blue as “royal” colors when in fact malachite has been a favorite in royal households since Russian Royalty made it popular in interiors and decorative objects in the 19th century. Photo:  Saint-Petersburg.com

The Malachite Room in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg (above) showcases towering columns made of the rich green stone as only one example of Romanov opulence.  The famous Russian Imperial Lapidary Workshops at Peterhof and Faberge created hundreds of objects from the rich source first discovered in Urals near Ekaterinburg in 1635. Photo: Royal Collection Trust:© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2013

This malachite vase resides in Windsor Castle and was presented in 1827  to George IV on behalf of the Empress Alexandra Feodorovna.  Thankfully this historic vase also survived the devastating 1992 fire at Windsor Castle.

What Goes Around Comes Around Malachite has made a resurgence in interiors in the last few years.  From wallpaper to fabrics to numerous tabletop accessories, anyone can enjoy a bit of malachite in their own palace without spending a small fortune.   Malachite is known for its natural rich green colors and while it makes for pretty jewelry, this is a stone which shown or replicated on a large scale is dramatic and doable.

Hot Malachite Tip A favorite haunt to uncover natural or even cut and polished malachite pieces are Gem & Mineral Shows which travel the country.  These can be a treasure trove for the interior rock hound.

Embrace the natural colors of malachite in your interior and rock on.  It is a safe bet malachite is here to stay.