Malachite: History, Origin, Composition, Virtues, Meaning and Purification of the stone

Malachite is a green stone belonging to the carbonate family. This popular stone is often used in jewelry and decoration. It is highly prized for its beauty and lithotherapy benefits.

History of Malachite

The name Malachite comes from the ancient Greek "malachos" meaning "soft". Other meanings include "malakhe", meaning "mauve", in reference to the mauve plant. Finally, some say the term comes from the Latin "malachites" meaning "through".

Malachite stone has been used since the dawn of time, by many civilizations, in different eras and for many different purposes; for its medicinal beliefs, to decorate objects or for its use in cosmetics and/or jewelry.

In Antiquity, Malachite was used for decorative purposes such as decoration or painting, broken into powder for its green pigments. The Egyptians used Malachite as a symbol of eternal youth and life after death. It was used by young pregnant women, who wore the stone around their necks for protection. People associated it with the hippopotamus goddess Thoueris, protector of marternity. Among the Greeks, Malachite was used as a talisman to protect against wounds. The stone was also used to decorate ornaments in the temple of Artemis.

For the Romans, Malachite was associated with protection against the wrath of Zeus. As a result, the stone was sold as an amulet in stormy weather to protect against lightning. Malachite stone is highly prized in Russia, especially by rulers, and was mainly used as decoration in churches. During the Middle Ages, Malachite stone became a protective stone against the evil eye and bad vibes. People used it to protect their children from fatal illnesses.

Today, Malachite is a well-known and highly prized stone in the world of jewelry. The stone can be found on the columns of St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Origin and composition of Malachite

Malachite belongs to the carbonate family, more specifically to the hydrated copper carbonate category. The stone is composed of copper, carbon, oxygen and hydrogen, with the chemical formula Cu2CO3(OH)2.

Malachite can be found in oxidation zones in copper deposits. It is formed by the reaction between copper, carbonate and water. There are many different types of malachite, depending on their geographical location and formation process:

• Stalactite Malachite is formed by a carbonate flow that leaves concentrated layers of malachite that harden over time,
• Peacock's eye Malachite forms in copper-rich areas from a mixture of malachite and Azurite,
• Shimmering Malachite is formed from parallel fibers that grow in a certain direction, creating a shimmering effect when polished,
• Bull's eye Malachite is formed from concentric bands that form around a core and the shape that emerges forms a target,
• Feather-shaped Malachite forms several thin layers that twist to form feather-like patterns,
• Botryoidale Malachite creates several circles that stick together to form clusters.

Origin of Malachite

Malachite's main deposits are found in the following countries: Zambia, Namibia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Australia, Russia, France and Romania. Malachite has a hardness of around 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. This is relatively low, making it fragile and easy to scratch.

Properties and significance of Malachite stone

Malachite is a stone of protection and comfort.

Malachite in lithotherapy

On a physical level, Malachite is able to relieve physical, menstrual and headaches, and helps stimulate the immune system. In addition, Malachite promotes sleep and repels nightmares, as well as relieving, helping and opening up airways such as asthma.

On the psychic level, Malachite is often used for its emotionally comforting qualities, including overcoming trauma and emotional wounds. In addition, the stone provides support against stress and/or anxiety, as well as for creativity, imagination and decision-making.

Please note that lithotherapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or expertise.

Significance of the Malachite stone

Malachite symbolizes change and creativity. It is associated with several chakras, including the heart chakra, which amplifies positive emotions such as love and empathy; and the solar plexus chakra, which promotes self-confidence and self-esteem to overcome difficulties. Malachite is very close to the astrological signs of Taurus, Libra and Capricorn.

Malachite care, cleansing and recharging

Cleaning and Purifying Malachite

It's important to take good care of your Malachite stones, so we advise you to clean the stone with running (unsalted) water for a few moments before removing it and wiping it with a soft, clean cloth. Then purify your stone with a cluster of quartz next to it.

Recharging Malachite

Finally, recharge it with sunlight. Note, however, that the stone has a relatively low hardness and is therefore fragile, so don't leave it in direct sunlight, as this could damage your Malachite stone.