Knife rest (12) - Malachite - Sphere place card holders

A complete set of twelve place card holders, each turned from a single piece of solid natural malachite and polished to a high gloss. A small flat base keeps each sphere steady on the table, and a fine slot is cut across the top to hold a name card, menu card or small photo upright.

The spheres show malachite at its best: bands of light and deep green wrap around each one, and most display the concentric "bullseye" eyes that collectors look for. A couple are darker, almost black-green, which adds variety to the set. Because each sphere is cut from natural stone, no two are alike.

A striking set for a formal dinner, wedding table or Christmas setting, and equally good on a desk as photo or note holders.