Malachite 孔雀石

Deposit sites: Australia, Chile, Europe, Namibia.

Romania, South Africa, U.S.A. Russia, Zimbabwe, Zaire, Rhodesia, Egypt, Urals, France, and England

Variety/Species: Copper ore mineral

Hardness: 3.5 – 4

Zodiacal sign: Leo, Sagittarius, Scorpio, Taurus.

Aquarius

Color scheme: green to dark green.

Gemstone of the month: 17th Wedding Anniversary

Malachite is an opaque, soft, rich green stone with lighter green, eye-shaped forms or bands on it surface design. Its name originates from the Greek word ma1akos meaning “soft” because of its soft texture. The crisp green and black banding creates wonderful patterns that have adorned people and places for centuries. Historically, malachite was believed to be potent stones of protection, enhance visionary abilities and stimulate just about every type of personal power.

Acknowledged by the ancients for its spiritual and decorative qualities, malachite has been extensively used by the Russians, Romans, Greeks and Egyptians for jewelry and beautiful inlaid works. During the Middle Ages, it was thought to cure vomiting and protect against witches and other dangers to small children, and was worn to ward off the “evil eye.”