MALACHITE

Malachite is a copper-based mineral with the chemical formula Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂. It has a Mohs hardness of 3.5 – 4, and is well known for its distinctly rich, banded-green coloration. It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system and most often forms fibrous, botryoidal, or stalagmitic masses deep within underground spaces, where the water table and hydrothermal fluids provide an ample environment for chemical precipitation over lengthy periods of time. Malachite is often found in association with other semi-precious copper-based minerals such as azurite, chrysocolla, cornetite, brochantite, and rosasite. Malachite forms as a result of supergene weathering and oxidation of primary sulfidic copper ores; most commonly found within the wide-spread copper bearing mineral, chalcopyrite. With the exception of its brilliant green color, the physical properties of malachite are similar to those of azurite, and it is not uncommon for the two minerals to be frequently discovered together as aggregates. Today, malachite is most commonly resourced for the art of jewelry making and high-end enthusiast collection, as well as its usefulness as an indicator mineral for the potential mining exploration of subterranean copper deposits.

MALACHITE HISTORY AND MINING

Historically, in Ancient Egypt, the color green was regularly associated with death and the power of resurrection, as well as being a symbol of new life and fertility. Ancient Egyptians believed that the afterlife contained an eternal paradise, referred to as the "Fields of Malachite", which resembled their lives, but with no fear of pain or suffering. The deceased were often given tokens of malachite that were, in turn, to be used as a boat fair to the Egyptian God of the afterlife, named Anubis; given that the person lived by the standards of Ma’at, which are regarded as the soul’s acceptance of truth, balance, order, harmony, law, morality, and justice, Anubis would grant safe passage to the Fields of Malachite, most commonly known as the Underworld. During the Middle Ages, it was customary to wear malachite that had been engraved with a symbol of the Sun, which was said to help the person to maintain good health and prosperity when worn on the body. Additionally, beginning in classical antiquity and lasting through the 16th century of Western Europe, malachite was commonly used as a mineral pigment within green paints. Evidence also suggests its use as a pigment within the Eastern Zhou period of China, dating back to roughly 2,600 years ago. During the 16th century, the malachite form of green pigment was eventually replaced by its first synthetic form, called verditer, or copper(11) carbonate hydroxide. Today, large quantities of malachite have been mined in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Zambia; Tsumeb, Namibia; Mexico; Burra, South Australia; and the Southwestern United States, most notably in Arizona and New Mexico.

MALACHITE METAPHYSICS

Metaphysically, malachite is considered a powerful stone of the Heart Chakra. It is said that malachite can aid its user by bringing passion and purpose driven energy, which can help to create or reignite one’s drive for fulfillment of stagnant goals and aspirations. Malachite is said to aid the heart by creating transformative action within personal endeavors, allowing for good luck, prosperity, and passion to be at the forefront of one’s goals. Physically, malachite is said to aid the body with afflictions regarding the heart and healthy blood flow, as well as the pancreas, spleen, and parathyroid. It is also said to aid the muscles with tension release, as well as aid the immune system with rapid response when under cellular distress.