What Is Red Malachite?

Red malachite, also called red peacock stone, is not true malachite: it is a red to brown-orange banded jasper that gets its name from its malachite-like stripes. In crystal lore it is a stone of protection, courage and grounding, and many people keep it close on stressful days. Here is what it is made of, where it comes from, and how people use it.

The Physical Properties of Red Malachite

While it's called a malachite, red malachite is actually a red variety of jasper with malachite-like banded patterns. It may have similar features to the natural green malachite but red malachite is a jasper belonging to the chalcedony family.

This stone has rich and warm reddish colours with brown and orange tones. These colours are imparted by the stone's iron content. Red malachite bands are white to tan which can be speckled or cloudy.

With a hardness rating of 3 to 3.5, red malachite is a soft stone that scratches easily. It's only applicable in jewellery designs that don't require a lot of impact to make such as necklaces and earrings.

Store your red malachite jewellery, beads, or tumbled stones in a separate container away from harder stones and metal settings.

To clean it, use warm, soapy water and a fibre cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam/boiling methods to protect your stone from damage.

The History of Red Malachite

Since ancient times, green malachite has been used in Egyptian statues and amulets. The stone is also used to adorn the headdresses of pharaohs and as a colouring agent for cosmetics.

Egyptians also use many types of jasper as amulets. Jasper is considered as a symbol of power, abundance, and status. Ancient Egyptians used jasper as a jewelry material while the Minoans used jasper to make seals.

Red malachite can be found in China and Mexico.

The Lore of Red Malachite

It is believed that red malachite was the material used to build the oval dome of the lost city Atlantis. In the legend, the dome was a place of renewal, and red malachite was said to carry a purifying energy for everyone who touched it.

The Aztecs used red malachite to build their temples and gateways. The ancient nomadic tribe revered the stone and believed it was consecrated for sacred purposes. Red malachite was also used then to align the body with the Higher Self.

The Metaphysical Properties of Red Malachite

Red malachite is a symbol of courage, passion, and blazing energy. People wear it or meditate with it when they want a little encouragement.

And like all banded jaspers, red malachite is a powerful grounding stone meaning it connects you to the Earth's energy. That is why many people reach for red malachite on stressful or heavy days, as a reminder to slow down and feel steady.

This stone is associated with the root chakra, the first of the 7 energy centres of the body found at the base of your spine.

When you're feeling demotivated, always cranky, impatient, or lethargic, it's likely that your root chakra is unbalanced. Use red malachite to cleanse your root chakra and bring it back to harmony.

Use a red malachite tumbled stone or any other form and do the following:

• Lie face down and place the crystal at the base of your spine.
• Visualize yourself growing roots into the Earth, like a tree growing.
• Picture out an image of a red ball of light (your root chakra). Imagine the light getting bigger and stronger as the red malachite fuels your root chakra with strength.
• Recite positive affirmations like, I am at home in my body, The earth supports and nourishes me, or I am at peace with the present moment.

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