Malachite

Malachite is known to build up strength and encourage growth.  For this reason it has been used for centuries to expectant women in labor.  It is also a great heart stone making it a useful remedy against heart pains and cardiac asthma.  It has also been used to strengthen the optic nerve, for insomnia, and for arthritis.  This stone encourages harmonious relationships, as well as stimulating concentration, promoting spirituality, and encouraging understanding, particularly of oneself and others.  This quality makes it an ideal meditation stone.  It is effective on all chakras, especially the heart. 

It should be noted that there is a high copper content in this stone and it should be used cautiously.