What on Earth Is Malachite?

Malachite is a bright green copper mineral, known for the bands of light and dark layers that make every malachite piece unique. It is soft (3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale), it has been mined since about 4000 BC, and it is popular for jewellery and ornaments. This guide covers its physical properties, history and lore.

The Physical Properties of Malachite

Malachite is a secondary copper mineral quite popular for use in jewelry and ornaments thanks to its bright green color. Its shell-like formation causes its unique appearance of light and dark layers shaped as concentric rings, stripes, and other shapes. It's often found as crystalline aggregates or crust, or botryoidal clusters of radiating crystals. It is not commonly seen as a single crystal, although it can happen, in which case it's acicular to prismatic.

The mineral scores a 3.5 to 4 on Mohs scale of hardness. It's opaque in transparency, with a varying luster ” it can be vitreous, silky, or dull. It often takes a poor polish and is prone to small cracks, so its appearance improves with paraffin wax.

The History of Malachite

It received its name in antiquity from Pliny the Elder ” the name then was molochitus, after the Greek word for mallow which alluded to its bright, leaf-like green color. From around 1661 it's been known by its current name, malachite. Egyptians began mining it as early as 4000 BC, and its pigment was used for eye makeup starting from 3000 BC. Pharaohs used to line the inside of their headdresses, in the belief, it promoted wise rule. Today, it is found at localities in Namibia, Peru, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, and the USA.

The Lore of Malachite

In the ancient lore and legends, malachite connect with wisdom, protection from the evil eye and enhancement of magical capabilities. It also associated with a few love goddesses, such as Our Lady of the Mountains of central Russia, and Freya, the Norse goddess of love and beauty. In the Russian lore, water from a malachite goblet would grant the drinker the power to speak with animals, and during the Middle Ages, was regarded as the best protection against sorcery.

The Metaphysical Properties of Malachite

Among its other names, malachite has been called the Midwife Stone in folklore. Be warned to use only polished malachite, as its dust is toxic.

In crystal lore, malachite is linked with emotional honesty and healthy relationships. It can open the wearer's eyes to what's obstructing their spiritual growth, and how best to express their feelings to nurture friendships and empathy. Malachite is believed to be dedicated to the Heart Chakra, which in chakra tradition relates to how we connect with others.

This bright green stone is associated with wise choices and balance. Because of its beauty, every crystal enthusiast can get great wear out of it.