Agate

Amethyst

Aquamarine

Aventurine

Carnelian

Chrysoprase

Haematite

Jade

Jasper

Malachite

Quartz Crystal

Rose Quartz

Sugilite

Tiger's Eye

Topaz

Tourmaline

Verdite

Malachite

Promotes physical endurance and inner peace. Soothes and calms -- thus helping to foster patience. Western name derived in the 14th century, from Greek malakhe or malache, meaning "mallow leaf", a plant similar in colour. Recorded use as far back as 4000 BC.

A carbonate of copper, it is opaque or semi-opaque and always green. Has striking colour stratification, varying from bright green to a very dark, even blackish green. "Stripes" or characteristic banding are generally curved according to the outer surface of the stone. The colour is due to light absorbing atoms that are an intrinsic part of their chemical structures (see also: Colour Significance).

Used for ornaments and jewellery and also melted down to produce copper as far back as the Bronze Age. For many centuries highly valued in Eastern Europe as an ornamental stone, especially in veneered form for tables and boxes. Used in powdered form by early Egyptians - the first civilisation to develop the use of cosmetics - to highlight their eyes.

First known reference to healing power comes from an Egyptian papyrus dated around 1600 BC giving directions for their curative use. Used in the treatment of cholera, colic, diarrhoea and other internal ailments, it is also helpful in treating asthma, arthritis, broken bones, growths, and rheumatism, torn muscles and tumours. Also known to assist in the treatment of eyesight problems, toothache and vertigo, as well as menstrual problems. It strengthens the heart and assists the circulatory system and helps utilise oxygen and strengthen the blood.

An antidepressant, it is calming and soothing and brings inner peace. It reduces stress and confusion and aids in controlling emotions. Thought to stimulate instinctive and intuitive reasoning, promoting change that facilitates advancement and is said to represent fidelity in love and friendship, loyalty in partnerships and practicality and responsibility in business transactions. Strengthens leadership qualities, it is also thought to protect against radiation and is used in cases of poisoning.

A valuable talisman for children, it is often attached to infant's cradles. It protects the wearer from falls and warns of impending danger by breaking into several pieces. Malachite beads are worn around a sick person's neck so that the disease can pass through them and dissipate. It is a cleansing stone and excellent for meditation and dream work. It amplifies one's current mood and is thought to stimulate instinctive and intuitive reasoning, promoting change that facilitates advancement (see also: How they Work).

Said to be helpful for the psychological condition known as a "broken heart", it is also said to bring harmony into one's life and to give knowledge and patience and reveals subconscious blocks. It enhances psychic abilities and creativity and is said to be a useful aid in path-working.

Astrologically it is associated with the zodiac sign of Aquarius (20 January - 18 February). It is associated with the anniversary for the 13th year of marriage. Used on the Solar plexus or Heart or Root or Base chakra.

This mineral is available in many practical and useful forms