Malachite was mined from deposits near the Isthmus of Suez and the Sinai as early as 4000 BCE.

It was extensively mined at the Great Orme Mines in Britain 3,800 years ago, using stone and bone tools. Archaeological evidence indicates that mining activity ended c. 600 BCE, with up to 1,760 tonnes of copper being produced from the mined malachite.

Archaeological evidence indicates that the mineral has been mined and smelted to obtain copper at Timna Valley in Israel for more than 3,000 years. Since then, malachite has been used as both an ornamental stone and as a gemstone.

Malachite often results from the supergene weathering and oxidation of primary sulphidic copper ores, and is often found with azurite Cu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂ goethite, and calcite. Except for its vibrant green color, the properties of malachite are similar to those of azurite and aggregates of the two minerals occur frequently. Malachite is more common than azurite and is typically associated with copper deposits around limestones, the source of the carbonate.

Large quantities of malachite have been mined in the Urals, Russia. Ural malachite is not being mined as of 2006,[13] but G.N Vertushkova reports the possible discovery of new deposits of malachite in the Urals. It is found worldwide including in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Gabon; Zambia; Tsumeb, Namibia; Mexico; Broken Hill, New South Wales; Burra, South Australia; Lyon, France; Timna Valley, Israel; and the Southwestern United States, most notably in Arizona.

Anthropogenic malachite was historically believed to be the primary component of the patina which forms on copper and copper alloy structures exposed to open-air weathering; however, atmospheric sources of sulphate and chloride (such as air pollution or sea winds) typically favour the formation of brochantite or atacamite. Malachite can also be produced synthetically, in which case it is referred to as basic copper carbonate or green verditer.

MALACHITE is a powerful protective stone often carried as a Talisman.

Metaphysical Healers say it clarifies the emotions and the release of negative experiences which one cannot recall. Stimulates intuitive and instinctive reasoning allowing for change. It has been used as a protective mineral for those in the field of aviation stimulating awareness of the condition of vertigo.

Zodiac: Taurus