Malachite

Protection • Balance • Resilience • Empathy • Understanding • Equal relationships • Self-healing ability

Energetic properties

Malachite is a crystal with powerful properties. It offers protection against radiation, pollution, accidents, negative energy, and danger. It also brings emotional balance and stability, increasing resilience. The gemstone can help reduce anxiety and bring suppressed emotions to the surface. It enhances empathy and understanding and supports equal and healthy relationships. Physically, the stone has a positive effect on asthma, arthritis, and arthrosis. It is detoxifying, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the body’s self-healing ability.

Suitable for children from around age 10.

Formation

Malachite is a copper-bearing mineral, typically formed through hydrothermal processes and precipitation from solutions. It usually occurs near copper ores and is found in the oxidation zones of copper deposits.

The process begins with copper-rich fluids reacting with the surrounding rock. The dissolved copper ions combine with carbon dioxide and carbonates—such as calcite—in the rock, forming malachite. The mineral then deposits in veins, cracks, and cavities.

Its characteristic green color is caused by the copper content and the presence of other elements and impurities. Environmental factors like temperature, pressure, and chemical composition influence the final formation and crystal structure of malachite.

Etymology

The name derives from the Greek word 'malache', meaning 'green stone'. This refers to the mineral’s distinct green color. The term was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to describe green stones in general, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that the name became specifically associated with the mineral we now know as malachite.

Care

Malachite should not come into contact with water too often. It is a relatively soft stone, sensitive to scratches, wear, and corrosion—especially when exposed to acidic or alkaline substances. It is best cleaned gently with a dry cloth and should not be soaked in water or chemicals.

You can also cleanse and recharge it using sage, incense or moonlight.

Malachite can fade when exposed to bright sunlight.

Because the stone absorbs a lot of negative energy, regular cleansing is recommended.

Origin

Can be found in many parts of the world. Notable sources include Russia, the Congo, Zambia, Namibia, Mexico, Australia, the United States and Kazakhstan.

Availability

Malachite is generally considered a common mineral and can be found in many locations, so it’s not regarded as rare. However, its quality and size can vary. Some rare forms—such as crystals with internal inclusions or exceptionally large specimens—can be valuable.

Properties

Composition: Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂
Hardness: 4-5
Density: 2.9

Associated with Malachite