Malachite-what’s in a name and the powers that be

MALACHITE HISTORY & SYMBOLISM

The name malachite is believed to come from the Greek word “molochitus”, referring to the mallow leaf which is similar in color. Malachite has been used by humans since antiquity, and was believed to protect one from evil. In Ancient Egypt, the color green was highly symbolic, representing new life and fertility. Ancient Egyptians referred to the eternal paradise they believed awaited them in the afterlife as the “Field of Malachite”.  They would rarely used malachite as a gemstone in jewelry, but would grind it up and make paint pigments and eyeshadow!

In Ancient Greece and Rome, malachite was carved into amulets, jewelry, and statuary.  Ancient Romans referred to malachite as the "peacock stone", associated with the queen of the gods, Juno.  Malachite held prominence in Mayan culture, as well. A mosaic of malachite forms the funerary mask of the Red Queen of Palenque, so named because of the red cinnabar pigment that covered her body and the inside of her sarcophagus.

Malachite was an important stone in Russian architecture and culture in the 1800's and beyond.  In St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg, towering columns of malachite and lapis lazuli adorn the building's ornate interior.  A popular folk tale from the Ural region (where malachite and many other gemstones were once mined) called "The Malachite Casket" tells the story of a beautiful and mysterious young girl who gains possession of a jewelry box carved from malachite.  The cultural traces of malachite today are a clue to the once powerful and prominent Russian monarchy of yore.  

In modern metaphysical practices, malachite symbolizes transformation, abundance, and spiritual wisdom.  Some people believe that wearing malachite jewelry can alleviate depression and help aid in the restoration of balance and positivity.  Whatever your beliefs are, malachite is undoubtably a beautiful stone to add to your collection. 

MALACHITE PROPERTIES

Malachite is highly distinctive, with its variegated banding and rich emerald green color. That color comes from the copper deposits where malachite is often found. There are many aesthetic variations of malachite, a popular one, known as “peacock’s eye”, boasts varied bands of greens, ranging from very light to an almost black hue. The ‘peacock’s eye’ is especially sought after, as it is rarer than linearly banded gemstones. Malachite is quite soft, with a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4. Which is why it is often carved. It is not recommended for use in rings, as its softness leaves it susceptible to fall out of its setting. Malachite is found all over the world, including the U.S. (Arizona), Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

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It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Blog Post Title Four

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.