Malachite is a green copper carbonate mineral. Its name could have come from the Greek word, "malache" which means "mallow", because the colour of malachite is similar to the colour of mallow leaf. Alternatively, the name could have originated in the Greek word, "malakos" which means "soft", due to the fact that malachite is soft compared with other minerals. Malachite is used as a source of copper and as a gemstone. It often occurs with azurite in copper deposits. Malachite often has distinctive concentric bands in varying shades of green which make it an interesting gemstone. The history of malachite goes back to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans who used malachite to make jewelry and amulets, and ground it into powder to make eyeshadow. Malachite has also been used as the pigment in green paints. Many years ago, huge blocks of malachite, some weighing an enormous 20 tons, were found in Russia and were used by the Tsars to decorate their palaces. However, the most significant contemporary source of malachite is Africa. Malachite is a stone of transformation. It assists in clearing and cleansing all the chakras. It is an overall healing stone that stimulates and balances the heart and throat chakras. Malachite facilitates the release of negative experiences so one can heal and regain hope. It is very inspiring, purifying and compassionate and attracts love by opening the heart. Malachite is mined in Zaire, Australia, Chile, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Arizona.