AZURITE

Azurite is a secondary mineral that usually forms when carbon-dioxide-rich waters seep into the Earth and react with subsurface copper ores. The carbonic acid of these waters dissolves small amounts of copper from the ore. The dissolved copper is then transported with the water until it reaches a new geochemical environment. This new environment could be a location where water chemistry or temperature changes, or where evaporation occurs. If the conditions are right, the mineral Azurite may form. A significant accumulation of azurite may develop if these conditions persist for a very long time.

The most prized azurite showcases a deep blue hue and high clarity. Larger, well-formed crystals from notable locations like Morocco and Arizona are more valuable.

Azurite displays the rich, deep blue of the sky at dusk, similar to Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting. Those born under Sagittarius are honored with an Azurite zodiac stone!

Azurite is sometimes called a “stone of heaven” it is commonly believed to provide insight into all areas of life, promote intuition, stimulate creativity, dissolve impediments and soften cold intellectualism with love and compassion.

USES

Azurite has multiple uses, including as an ornamental stone, jewelry, and beads. Its softness and tendency to lose its deep blue color when exposed to the elements limits its uses. Azurite can be easily destroyed by heat, so any mounting of azurite specimens must be done at room temperature.

MOHS HARDNESS

3.5 to 4

LUSTER

Vitreous

CHEMICAL COMPOUND

Azurite has the chemical formula Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2. This means it is composed of copper (Cu), carbon (C), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H) atoms.

Chemical Composition: Azurite is primarily composed of copper carbonate hydroxide.

WHERE TO FIND

In the United States, specifically, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah are the notable locations for finding azurite. More important deposits have been found in France and Namibia. Other occurrences have been found in Mexico, Chile, Australia, Russia, and Morocco.

DIAGNOSTIC PROPERTIES

The diagnostic property of azurite is its beautiful, distinctive deep blue color. It is also soft.