The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Archaeology

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malachite

malachite [Ma].
Hydrous copper carbonate (Cu₂(OH)₂CO₃) representing a minor but widespread copper ore, green in colour. Probably first exploited as a cosmetic and ointment for the eyes, to cut down the glare of the sun and to discourage flies. The extensive deposits in Sinai were much exploited in antiquity. It was also used for oils and watercolours and encrusted on other materials as ornament.

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