Malachite is a vibrant green copper carbonate mineral known for its distinctive banded patterns. It has been used for centuries as a gemstone, pigment, and ornamental stone. It's often found with azurite in copper deposits and prized for its beauty in jewellery and carvings. It forms in botryoidal (grape-like) masses and is soft (3.5-4 on Mohs scale), requiring gentle care, but takes a beautiful polish, revealing concentric rings and swirling designs. Metaphysically, it's a powerful transformation stone that absorbs negativity, promotes emotional balance, and opens the heart.