Malachite – gorgeous! I love the endless variations on that swirly green theme. Malachite has a high copper content, which is what gives it the fabulous green colouring. It often results from the weathering of copper ores.
It was given its name from the Greek , meaning ‘mallow-green stone’ because of its resemblance to the leaves of the Mallow plant.
Malachite was used as a mineral pigment in green paints from ancient times until about 1800, when a synthetic form of the colour widely replaced it. Large quantities are mined in the Urals in Russia, and Malachite is found worldwide, including here in Australia at Broken Hill, New South Wales. It is often found in the company of Azurite.
Malachite was popular with ancient civilizations in Egypt, Rome and Greece where it was used in jewelry as well as cosmetics.
Malachite is believed to be a protector of children. It is said to protect travellers, and to protect the wearer from accidents. Malachite has been used to aid success in business and protect against undesirable business associations. It is believed to be a stone of balance in relationships.
You can have a little piece of this fabulous stone to wear for your very own, set in a ring or pendant.
I have some pieces of malachite in my gemstone collection and I’m always happy to try to source something particular for you if you have a special dream in mind!
