Malachite is a secondary copper mineral found in oxidized copper deposits. Such specimens are virtually always internally banded in different shades of green, and can be seen when a specimen is polished or cut open. These bands give much interest to this mineral as an ornament, owing to its popularity.
The banded specimens are frequently polished or cut into slabs to show the bands. Occasionally, the bands consist of concentric rings; such specimens are highly sought after. Polished, banded Malachite has been carved into ornaments and worn as jewelry for thousands of years. When found in massive hunks, the banded variety of Malachite makes a precious ornamental stone. Small ornamental objects, such as boxes and animal figures are carved out of this compact stone, and if properly polished, they are quite valuable. This type of Malachite is also used as a minor gemstone; being cut into cabochons and fashioned into necklace beads.