Malachite is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with a chemical composition of Cu2(CO3)(OH)2. It was one of the first ores used to produce copper metal. It is of minor importance today as an ore of copper because it is usually found in small quantities and can be sold for higher prices for other types of use.
Malachite has been used as a gemstone and sculptural material for thousands of years and is still popular today. Today it is most often cut into cabochons or beads for jewelry use.
Malachite's use as gem and ornamental stone is limited by its properties. It has perfect cleavage and a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4. These limit its use to items that will not suffer abrasion and impact. It is also sensitive to heat and reacts with weak acids. These properties further limit its use and require care during cleaning, repair, and maintenance. Malachite is sometimes treated with wax to fill small voids and improve its luster.
Synthetic malachite has been produced and used to make jewelry and small sculptures. Poorly done synthetics are often recognized by their unnatural color. The better synthetics can usually be recognized because their banding and eyes do not have a natural geometry. An experienced person can identify most of the synthetic and imitation materials on sight. (geology.com)
WARNING: Malachite is a powerful stone but one that needs to be handled with caution. It is toxic and should be used only in it's polished form. Avoid breathing its dust.
Malachite amplifies both positive and negative energies.
Malachite is an important protection stone. Malachite is believed to offer protection against negative energy. It is said to create a strong energetic barrier that can shield you from negative intentions.
It opens the heart to unconditional love by helping to release past traumas and emotional blockages. 
Encourages risk-taking and change, breaks unwanted ties and outworn patterns, and teaches how to take responsibility for one’s actions, thoughts and feelings.
