Malachite

Malachite is a secondary copper mineral known for its green color. It is formed near the earth's surface above copper deposits often within limestone. Egypt and Israel had some of the first malachite mines over 4,000 years ago, but today the majority of this mineral is from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Malachite is known for its gorgeous green color that never fades. It is most commonly found as stalactites or as spherical (botryoidal) clusters in cavities. When it is cut, the surface displays banding and eyes that resemble agates. With perfect cleavage, this mineral has been used for thousands of years as pigment, for sculptures, for jewelry and as gemstones. Because it only falls at a 3.5 on the Moh's hardness scale, malachite is restricted in its uses.    Metaphysical Meaning and Healing Properties: Known as the stone of transformation, malachite is a stone of manifestation, balance and intention. It is used to activate and cleanse all the chakras, particularly the Heart a