Meaning of the name “Malachite”
The origin of the name malachite can be rooted in two theories. The most plausible at present is that malachite would take its etymology from the Greek "Malachos" which means "soft", in reference to the tenderness of the stone. Indeed it has a hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Moh scale which makes it a soft stone that is easily scratched.
The other hypothesis is that the etymology comes from the Latin "malakhé" which means "purple". Amazing when you know that malachite is one of the most beautiful green stones on the planet.
History of a protective green stone
We now know that the characteristic green color of malachite stone is due to the copper that composes it. In antiquity this stone was crushed then reduced to powder in order to be used as a green pigment in the decoration of objects and in painting.
It is one of the oldest stones, used by all civilizations, whether in medicine for its healing properties, for decorative purposes for its incredible green color, or later for cosmetic purposes.
The Romans were convinced that the green stone had the property of protecting from the fire of Zeus. Thus during violent storms, they adorn themselves with talismans and pendants in malachite in order to protect themselves from lightning. In Eastern culture, death is akin to renewal and the color green is a symbol of rebirth, youth and health. Our society is inspired by it because green is known to boost our immune system and it is not uncommon to see walls painted green in certain hospitals.
Properties and virtues of malachite
Physical benefits
In lithotherapy, one of the main properties of malachite is to absorb negative energies, whether mental or physical (bruises, sprains, rheumatism, inflammation, headaches, etc.). Thus, it will be applied to the painful area, in order to effectively and durably soothe the pain. The soft stone has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Natural malachite also has the benefit of evacuating excess urea which causes rheumatism and sometimes headaches via its diuretic action. It alleviates joint problems and reduces inflammation.
With its relaxing and reassuring effect, malachite promotes quality sleep. It helps to relax the muscles related to breathing and thus increases lung capacity. In hyperactive people, the green stone of malachite balances body energy by absorbing excess energy that could not be evacuated.
“With its relaxing and reassuring effect, malachite promotes quality sleep. It helps to relax the muscles related to breathing and thus increases lung capacity.”
Emotional benefits
and spiritual
Green malachite improves the capacity of persuasion by allowing a clear, calm and structured speech. It improves self-confidence, reassures and develops the positive energy of its wearer who inevitably gains in confidence and self-esteem. It fights against depression by radiating powerful positive waves.
A polished malachite stone placed on the heart chakra is ideal for rebalancing the whole body. Malachite has the benefit of releasing emotional and affective blockages buried by our psyche over time and eliminating anxieties and fears.