GO GREEN : THE MALACHITE EDIT

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GO GREEN : THE MALACHITE EDIT

Go green with iconic malachite. Our guide to this favourite bold and bright gem.

Malachite is one of the most instantly recognisable of the gemstones, with its distinctive bright green tones and amazing patterns it instantly brings to mind the greens in found in nature, which explains its name : Malachite comes from the ancient Greek word Malakee meaning the leaves of the Mallow tree.

LOVED SINCE WAY BACK

This is one of the oldest known stones, dating back to use by the Ancient Egyptians around 4000 BC, and here in Britain at the Great Orme mines as far back as 3,800 years ago. The Romans and Greeks used the gemstone for ornaments and jewellery and it remained popular during the middle ages when it was believed to protect against the “Evil Eye” as it was thought the power of bright objects could ward away dark magic. At times in history it was even ground to powder to use as eyeshadow or paint pigment and it covered whole walls as panelling during the reign of the Tzars in Russia.

WHY SO SPECIAL?

Malachite is mainly connected with the idea of protection. Over the years it was worn by people believing it would absorb any negative energy and serve to protect because of its deep connection with nature. The lush green colours of the stone were naturally associated with the bright colours of botanics and the idea of the world bursting into life.

Some would attatch the stone to a crib thinking it would protect the child and warn off evil spirits and in some parts of Italy this tradition is continued today by children wearing malachite charms on red cords. It is also said to have healing powers and work to reduce swelling or inflamation as well as stimulate the immune system. Since no two stones look alike it has a unique appeal as early wearers found significance in the patterns and shapes in the stones.

HOW TO WEAR

The green and gold trend is not going away… this bright gem looks best layered with chunky gold chains and hoops or pair with green onyx and amazonite gems. Choose a set of malachite charm gem earrings to make a pop of colour in your gold ear stack, or layer a malachite pendant with gold T-bars or chains. Go subtle with dainty malachite or go big with statement gem icon pieces.