Malachite

Natural History

Malachite is copper carbonate hydroxide, a very common form of opaque copper carbonate with distinctive swirls of lighter and darker green and black. It is found in Russia, the Middle East, Romania, and Zambia. The name Malachite comes from the Greek meaning mahle "green mallow plant" or possibly from the Greek word malakos meaning “soft” alluding to the fact that this is a soft mineral, easy to carve and to break.

History and Folklore

Historically, malachite has been used as the pigment in green paints and cosmetics and as the basis for carving various decorative items such as vases. It was mined as far back as 4000 BC by the ancient Egyptians. Malachite may have been one of the earliest ores from which copper was derived.
The ancient Greeks used malachite to create amulets to protect children and during the Middle Ages malachite was used in amulets to defend against black magic.

Malachite Correspondences

Angel: Ausiel; Gods/Goddesses: Venus, Freyja; Chakra: heart; Element: earth, Water; Astrological Sign: Scorpio; Planet: Venus, Neptune.

Traditions

Malachite is a traditional gemstone gift for the 13th wedding anniversary.
Considered a salesperson’s stone, placing malachite in the corners of a business or in the cash register is said to attract business.

Healing and Magickal Uses of Malachite

Body: Malachite increases physical energy, encourages cell regeneration and clears and activates the chakras. It is worn to reduce swelling in joints, aids sleep, enhance the immune system, reduce acid levels in the body, combat dyslexia and aid the circulatory system. It can also be used to ease migraines and protect against pollution, noise and electro-magnetic emissions. Malachite should not be used to make elixirs because of its high copper content.
Mind: Malachite induces feelings of sympathy, empathy and compassion for others, cleanses the aura, helps remove spiritual blocks. Gazing into a malachite stone is said to calm emotions and encourage harmony and patience. It also opens up the mind to receive knowledge.
Magick: Malachite is a protective stone said to warn the wearer of impeding danger by breaking. It can be used in all sorts of protection magick especially while traveling. A malachite amulet engraved with a rayed sun is said to increase the powers of the magus using it. Malachite may also be used in prosperity magic and to ward against nightmares. Malachite can be attached to a child’s bed or cradle to ward off illness and other dangers or hung in a nursery window to prevent negative energies from entering the room.

Care and Cleansing

Malachite is a soft stone and susceptible to damage if handled roughly. Protect it from getting crushed or scratched and keep it from extremes of temperature, especially avoid sudden temperature changes.
Use Earth cleansing to cleanse and recharge. Cleanse and recharge often as it has a tendency to absorb negativity, especially when used in healing work. It will fade and begin to crack if not completely cleansed often. You can also cleanse and recharge malachite by laying it on a clear quartz cluster in the sun. Do not use salt as it will mar the surface of the stone. Avoid breathing the dust of raw malachite. Handle with care and wash hands after handling.