Malachite is a copper based mineral and can vary between botryoidal, fibrous, stalagmitic or massive forms. The color varies through bright green, dark green, blackish green with some being almost black. The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently the largest producer of Malachite but it is found worldwide including Australia, France, Mexico, Namibia, Russia, and southwestern USA (mainly Arizona).

Malachite is a beautiful decorative stone that has been used for many centuries and has been spectacularly featured in palaces and public buildings throughout Europe and Russia.  Now it is mainly used for jewelry which includes cabochons, earrings, pendants, necklaces and beads. Moh’s Scale of hardness is 3.5 – 4, so it is especially suitable for carving. It is made into beautiful spheres, eggs, obelisks, animal shapes, boxes, and sculptures.

People throughout the centuries have worn Malachite as a talisman for good health. Many healers use malachite as it is a strong physical healing stone. The ancient Egyptians believed that after death they would be transported to Paradise which was known as  the “Field of Malachite” where they would live their life with no pain or suffering. 

As stated by Melody in her wonderful book, Love is in the Earth, “Malachite is a stone of transformation assisting one in changing situations.” It can release long forgotten bad experiences and help find the way to proceed to a desired end result. Malachite can help you look inward to discover the emotional cause of illness and help release inhibitions. Historically, it has been worn for protection. 

Malachite is a beautiful stone with a great variety of patterns and shapes. Each piece is unique. Clearly one of natures master pieces. You can probably guess it is one of my favorites.

By Neville Ryan

EarthGallery.com