Malachite

Overview
Malachite is found alongside copper deposits, and is very similar to azurite, another secondary mineral of copper. Malachite is found in many places including the Ural Mountains, Israel, Congo, and the U.S. It forms when copper minerals reacts with carbonated water or limestone. Malachite is only found in shades of green and has a very obvious and unique look.

About the Stone

Malachite is a mineral that sits at a 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Malachite's name comes from the Greek word "molochitis" meaning mallow-green stone. It is very rarely found in single crystals.

Malachite is always green in color. Imitation pieces may have black or white banding, although this mineral is rarely imitated as it is found in relative abundance.

Malachite is mined on a large scale in the Ural Mountains and is also found in Congo, Canada, Tsumeb, Namibia, Russia, Mexico, Zaire, Australia, England and Israel. In the United States, malachite has been found alongside copper deposits in California, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.

Malachite is recognized for the 13th year of marriage and archeological evidence suggests this mineral has been mined and smelted for well over 3000 years.

Metaphysical Properties

The color green has long been seen as the color of life and Malachite has become the restorer of life. It is said to assist the body in its natural healing process. Malachite is often worn to detect impending danger, and using this mineral can counteract any self-destructive romantic tendencies a person might have. Holding or meditating on Malachite relaxes the nervous system and calms stormy emotions.

Malachite is often attached to infants cradles and used as a talisman for children to ward off danger and illness.

Malachite in Jewelry

Malachite is very soft, so if you are very hard on your jewelry in general, malachite may not be for you. That being said, finding a piece with malachite's unique presence is very special indeed, and could be worth a little more caution. It is recommended that you do not use an ultrasonic cleanser on malachite.