Malachite Crystal: Meaning, Healing Properties & Uses

APRIL 17, 2024

What is Malachite?

Malachite crystal, a mineral with a rich history dating back over 4000 years, has captivated people for centuries. This mesmerizing green gemstone, with its unique pattern of special rings called the “peacock’s eye” was originally discovered and used to produce copper. The rich color of malachite is truly a remarkable sight. It has also been considered a rare gemstone for many years, as most of the original malachite mines and deposits have been depleted.

What does malachite do? – In the realm of crystal healing, malachite is said to be a powerful stone that can help with emotional healing and spiritual development. It is believed to be a protective crystal that can help balance emotions and bring about change. Many spiritual practitioners use green malachite to help with physical healing, as well as to protect against negative energy.

How to Pronounce Malachite

It is not at all difficult to pronounce malachite. It is commonly pronounced as ma-luh-kite and thought to be derived from the Greek word “mallache” meaning green, which is fitting given its beautiful green color.

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Malachite Meaning & Healing Properties

The general meaning of malachite is protection and transformation.

The spiritual and healing properties of malachite have been revered for centuries, dating back to ancient times. This precious gem was believed to protect against the evil eye by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who often used it in amulets and talismans. The stunning green hues of malachite were also used to create sculptures and were even ground down to make green eyeshadow and paint pigments (like lapis lazuli was).

In Russia, massive deposits of rough malachite were once found and used to decorate the palaces of the Czars. However, with aggressive mining, the supply of malachite ran out in the early 1800s.

In the middle ages, malachite was worn by children as a protection against black magic and witchcraft. It was believed that malachite stone had the power to warn of danger and if it broke, it was a sign that danger was nearby.

Even today, thanks to malachite’s metaphysical properties, it is considered a very powerful stone. Below are some of the top malachite healing properties.

PROTECTION
Possibly the most well known malachite benefit. This crystal is a powerful protective stone that absorbs negative and toxic energies, promoting positivity and emotional well-being.

PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
Known as the “stone of transformation,” malachite is believed to be a powerful guide on the journey of self growth. It is said to help heal painful emotions, absorbing them into itself, offering support during times of change, or break a bad habit.

SUCCESS & ASPIRATIONS
A popular one of malachite’s magical properties is its reported ability to provide individuals with independence, decisiveness, and determination, making it a powerful tool for achieving goals and manifesting success.

BOOST CREATIVITY
Malachite is said to tap into deep emotions and inspire vulnerability, leading to an increased sense of creativity and artistic expression.

EMOTIONAL BALANCE
The powers of malachite are said to balance and open the chakras, promoting feelings of love and emotional harmony, while flushing away negative energy.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS
In crystal healing, malachite is believed to have a range of health benefits including reducing joint inflammation, relieving menstrual symptoms, improving sleep, promoting circulation, and supporting the immune system and liver function.

Malachite Properties & Physical Characteristics

Malachite is a beautiful and unique mineral that forms above copper deposits beneath the earth’s surface. This mineral can often be found deep inside caves, in the form of stalactites, and is also commonly found in limestone. Often, malachite is found alongside other minerals like azurite and calcite. When cut into slabs, malachite has banding and “eyes” that resemble an agate.

Is Malachite Toxic?

While a popular stone for jewelry and crystal healing purposes, due to its high copper levels, malachite can be considered toxic if not handled properly. This toxicity generally refers to the dust that comes from processing natural malachite, and not the final product – your polished stone.

To avoid any toxicity from malachite, it’s important to never inhale or ingest pieces of the crystal, or consume anything that’s been exposed to the stone (like food or water).

Colors & Types

The beauty of real malachite lies in its wide range of colors, from pale green to deep, dark green – almost black! While there are no official “types” of malachite, it forms in various ways that have their own descriptions.

AZURITE MALACHITE
A combination of two copper-derived minerals, blending the green of malachite with the blue of azurite. Azurite, a mineral often used as a pigment, can range in color from blue to green, to even black. This combination crystal is thought to bring about change and balance your inner self. It’s often referred to as Azurmalachite.

VELVET MALACHITE
Another form is velvet malachite, which “grows” in a silky formation, often with “hills” and a fibrous texture. This rare form of malachite is also known as “silky” or “fibrous” malachite. Despite its name, the crystal’s surface is not actually soft, it is prickly and brittle, but the light passing through many pointed crystals on the specimen makse it look like velvet.

BOTRYOIDAL MALACHITE
The third type of malachite is botryoidal malachite, which has a globular appearance and looks like a bunch of grapes, hence its name, which comes from the Greek word “botryoidal” meaning a bunch of grapes. This form of malachite has an external surface made up of rounded segments. It’s important to remember that all forms of malachite have the same toxicity, so even though they may look like a bunch of grapes, be sure not to take a bite!

What is Malachite Good For?

Malachite can be incorporated in one’s life in many ways. For some, to be a part of a crystal healing ritual, and for others, simply for the stone’s aesthetic value. Here are some straightforward malachite uses that can be incorporated into everyday life.

MALACHITE AFFIRMATIONS
Below are some examples of affirmations that reinforce malachite’s healing properties related to transformation:

1. I am open to change
2. I trust my inner self to guide me towards positive change
3. I am ready to let go of old patterns and embrace change
4. I am strong and capable of overcoming any obstacle in my journey of transformation

MEDITATION
Enhance your meditation practice by holding your malachite in the palms of your hands during your meditation session.

YOGA
Elevate your yoga practice by incorporating a malachite crystal. Place a malachite crystal at the end of your mat and take a glance at it during your practice, to allow the crystal to help release any negative energy.

INTENTION SETTING AND MANIFESTATION
Hold your malachite crystal in your hand while closing your eyes and thinking of an intention. When you open your eyes, it is believed that the crystal has now been “charged” with the intention you’ve set.

BATHTIME
Experience the soothing and uplifting energy of malachite during your bathtime by placing it on the ledge or counter next to the tub. Keep in mind that malachite is not water friendly, therefore it is not recommended to put the crystal in the water.

ON THE GO
Tumbled stones are ideal for taking on the go, as they easily fit into pockets, purses, clothing and bags.

IN THE HOME
Experience the benefits of malachite in your home by strategically placing it in specific areas. Placing malachite on the eastern side of your home can enhance health and family harmony, while placing it in the south-east corner can promote prosperity.

WEAR YOUR MALACHITE
Malachite is a highly sought after stone for jewelry, as it offers protective qualities that can be carried with you throughout the day. Popular jewelry items such as necklaces, rings, and bracelets are a great way to incorporate malachite into your everyday life.

SLEEPING WITH MALACHITE
If you’re interested in experiencing vivid dreams tonight, try sleeping with some malachite under your pillow.

ON AN ALTAR
Enhance the beauty of your altar by displaying your tumbled malachite stones on it. This not only adds visual appeal, but also makes them easily accessible for you to touch and connect with the energy of the crystals when desired.

FOR YOUR CAREER
Enhance your career journey by keeping a malachite crystal in your workspace. This powerful stone can provide support and guidance during times of transition, helping you navigate changes and achieve your professional goals.

Forms & Shapes

Malachite is available in numerous shapes and forms, both raw and polished. The best form to add into your wellness routine will depend on your personal budget, how you plan on using the crystal, and what the stone’s intended purpose is. Below are some of the most common forms of malachite.

RAW MALACHITE
Also known as “unpolished,” raw malachite stone is in its most natural form, untouched by the hands of a lapidarist or machinery.

TUMBLED MALACHITE
These small, smooth crystals have been tumbled to achieve their glossy luster. However, due to malachite’s low Moh’s hardness rating, it is not commonly used as a tumbled stone, but it is technically possible to do so.

MALACHITE CABOCHONS
These smooth, round-faced crystals have been crafted by a lapidarist, and are often used in jewelry pieces and for malachite beads.

MALACHITE SPHERE
Smooth, heavy, cold, and perfectly round. The spherical shape allows malachite’s energy to be radiated in all directions.

MALACHITE TOWERS & POINTS
These polished, six or eight-sided crystals are perfect for focusing energy, as the point allows for energy to be directed upward.

PYRAMID
The ancient and sacred shape of a pyramid is known for its grounding properties and ability to transmit energy through its points and apex, making it an ideal form for malachite.

CUBE
Known for its grounding properties, malachite cubes display the stone’s unique patterns on all six faces, making it an attractive and powerful addition to any collection.

EGG
Shaped and polished into a smooth, shiny egg, malachite eggs represent new beginnings, making them a valuable symbol of malachite’s transformative properties.

PENDULUM
These malachite pendulums are used in divination work and during chakra healing sessions, providing insight and direction.

HEART & PALM STONE
Also known as meditation stones, these malachite pieces are cut and polished into a round or heart shape, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand.

FREEFORM
Malachite freeforms are unique and organic in shape, featuring the mesmerizing patterns and colors of the stone in their natural form. These pieces make for stunning focal points or decorative pieces in any space, radiating powerful protective and transformative energy.

CARVINGS
With its rich colors and striking patterns, malachite is a natural choice for intricate carvings. These unique creations can take the form of animals, symbols, or intricate designs, and are often used for decorative or spiritual purposes. Some of the most popular malachite carvings include frogs, elephants, skulls, mushrooms, and even bowls.

Caring for Your Crystal

To ensure your crystals maintain their natural energy and beauty, it’s essential that they are properly cared for. This includes regular cleansing and charging of the stones.

There are numerous ways to cleanse and charge crystals, and the most effective method will depend on the specific type of crystal, and your personal preferences. It’s important to take the time to research and understand the needs of your different crystals to ensure they receive adequate care. Below are the best ways to cleanse and charge malachite.

How to Cleanse Malachite

Refresh and renew your malachite by giving it a deep cleanse every now and again using your favorite of these techniques.

SMUDGING – Using sage smoke to purify and cleanse your stone is both powerful and effective. Simply light the bundle, blow out the flame and waft your malachite through the smoke a handful of times.

SELENITE – Recharge your crystal by placing the stone on a selenite slab for 12 hours, ensuring direct contact between the two stones for maximum energy transfer.

CLEAR QUARTZ – Similar to using selenite, place your malachite in direct contact with clear quartz overnight to cleanse and purify your stone.

EARTH’S ENERGY – For a deep cleanse, bury your malachite in the soil. After a few days, retrieve your purified and cleansed malachite.

MOONLIGHT – Place your malachite under the light of a full moon for a few hours to invite the moon’s energy to cleanse and purify.

RICE – Use uncooked rice to soak up negative energy and realign the crystal’s natural good vibrations by leaving it overnight. The rice should be thrown away afterwards, and never consumed.

BREATHWORK – Hold your stone in your hands and think about the crystal in its purest, cleanest form free from negative energy. Blow onto the stone to complete the cleansing process.

SOUND THERAPY – Place the crystal near a singing bowl or bell and strike it to produce a soothing, resonant sound. The vibrations from the sound are thought to purify and realign the energy of the crystal.

It’s important to note that putting malachite in water for cleansing is not recommended, as the mineral has a relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, between 3.5 and 4. Crystals typically require at least a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale to withstand water.

How to Charge Malachite

Activate the energy of your malachite by charging it using these simple methods. Some methods overlap with cleansing as well.

IN THE EARTH – Allow your crystal to soak up the energy of the earth, recharging and realigning its natural vibrations and energy.

SUNLIGHT – Charging your stone by exposing it to sunlight is a simple, yet effective method. However, please be mindful of the amount of time the stone is exposed to sunlight, as prolonged exposure may cause discoloration.

MOONLIGHT – Malachite and the moon are an excellent duo. Place your stone under the light of a full moon to invite the moon’s energy to recharge and energize the stone.

SOUND THERAPY – Place the crystal near a singing bowl or bell and strike it to produce a soothing, resonant sound. The vibrations from the sound are thought to help realign and energize the crystal.

OTHER CRYSTALS – Should you have some clear quartz or selenite available, use their energy to charge your crystal. Simply place the stones near each other.

Malachite Chakra Placements

Malachite, with its stunning green hues, is a powerful ally for the chakras. It is said to be particularly attuned to the heart chakra, helping us to open our hearts to love and compassion. It can also work with the third eye chakra, helping us to tap into our intuition and inner wisdom. And, when placed on the solar plexus chakra, it can help to ground us and boost our willpower.

Green crystals like malachite are often associated with the heart chakra and are believed to be powerful tools for healing and transformation.

Malachite Zodiac & Birthstones

While not officially assigned to any specific month or birthstone, malachite is often associated with the zodiac signs of Taurus, Scorpio, and Capricorn.

TAURUS
Taurus individuals are known for their stubbornness and resistance to change. Malachite’s energy can help them to embrace new possibilities and navigate uncertainty with greater ease.

CAPRICORN
Capricorns are driven by their ambition and focus on achieving their goals. The emotional balancing properties of malachite can aid in maintaining a sense of emotional balance during the pursuit of their aspirations.

SCORPIO
Scorpios are known for their charm and ever-evolving energy. As the “stone of transformation,” malachite can serve as a guide for Scorpios as they navigate through the frequent changes in their lives.

Crystal Pairings

In crystal healing, stones can be paired together to enhance their natural properties and benefits. When two or more crystals are used together, they create a synergistic effect that amplifies the energy of each individual crystal. Below are some common crystals that pair well with malachite.

1. MALACHITE & CHRYSOCOLLA
Malachite and chrysocolla are often referred to as “cousin crystals,” as they complement each other perfectly. Together, they provide a powerful tool for facing emotional challenges and promoting communication with those around us. These crystals can help to release resentment and pain, allowing individuals to outgrow negative habits and shed anything that holds them back. They also work to boost confidence and self-esteem.

2. AMETHYST & MALACHITE
Pair amethyst and malachite together during meditation to promote confidence and self-worth. Both stones are associated with the upper chakras, which represent one’s connection to the inner self, others, and the universe. This combination can aid in spiritual growth and self-discovery.

3. MALACHITE & BLACK TOURMALINE
Black tourmaline and malachite together offer excellent protection against negative energies. This combination is perfect for use during meditation or manifestation rituals, helping to clear any blockages and attract positive energy.

4. RED JASPER & MALACHITE
Red Jasper and malachite work together to balance emotions and provide a sense of grounding and protection. This combination is thought to boost sexual energy, making it a perfect pair to keep in the bedroom.