Combinations of two or more gemstones are not only beautiful, but they also become more powerful as healers, since the properties of each crystal become combined as a whole. An excellent example of this type of alliance is Malachite-Azurite. Both are composed of Copper Carbonate Hydroxide and their chemical compositions are nearly identical – the only difference is that azurite contains less water than malachite. Both of these crystals are found in copper ore deposits, often growing alongside one another.

Malachite is a banded green carbonate mineral, whereas Azurite is a deep blue. The inclusion of copper is what gives these stones their stunning coloring. On the Mohs scale, both have a hardness between 3.5 -4.

An interesting characteristic of Malachite is its ability to pseudomorph Azurite back into Malachite. Pseudomorph means “false shape” and malachite specimens will often transform Azurite's internal chemical composition back into malachite, while still retaining the outward appearance of the azure blue stone. Sometimes Azurite will oxidize into Malachite when exposed to moisture in the air. Hence the reason artists of the past who used Azurite pigments noticed (to their horror) their lovely azure skies turning green over time.

Malachite is a protective stone. It is a stone of healing, self-confidence, peace and business success. It is ruled by the planet Venus and the element of Earth. Malachite can be used on the heart chakra, as well as the throat and solar plexus.

Azurite is also a healing stone. It is a good crystal to use for divination, psychic awareness and creativity. It is also ruled by Venus, but Water it its ruling element. Chakras associated with Azurite are the throat and third eye.

When both Malachite and Azurite combine, the alliance balances the heart and throat energies, thereby enabling a much clearer form of communication.

Another crystal that is often associated with malachite and azurite is Chrysocolla. Chrysocolla is not a true mineral, as it doesn't have a true crystalline structure. It's an amorphous substance, often referred to as gel silica and, as such, it is a mineraloid. Chrysocolla is Hydrated Copper Silicate and it is also found in copper ore deposits. On the Mohs scale, Chrysocolla is very soft, only between 2-4 and it isn't used in jewelry unless it's combined with agatized quartz. Chrysocolla is a pale, sky blue color and is a member of the Silicates class of minerals, while Malachite and Azurite are members of the Carbonates class.

An unusual test to see if a specimen is, in fact, Chrysocolla, is to touch it to your tongue – if it sticks a bit, it's Chrysocolla.

Chrysocolla is a stone of peace, love and wisdom. It soothes emotions and aids in clear communication and intuition. It, too, is ruled by the planet Venus and the element of water. Chakras associated with Chrysocolla are the heart and throat.

Special combinations of Chrysocolla-Malachite-Azurite can be powerful healing stones, especially with matters of the heart (both physical and emotional), communication and protection.