mineral

Azurite and Malachite on Matrix

Azurite: Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2; Malachite: Cu2CO3(OH)2

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Deep azure blue (Azurite) and vivid green (Malachite); Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Fair to poor.

Hardness: 3
Color: Deep azure blue (Azurite) and vivid green (Malachite)
Luster: Vitreous to earthy

Identified March 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Deep azure blue (Azurite) and vivid green (Malachite); Luster: Vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Fair to poor.

Formation & geological history

Secondary copper minerals formed in the oxidation zones of copper ore deposits. They are created by the action of carbonated waters acting upon copper-bearing minerals. Common in regions with arid climates.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as 1) minor ores of copper, 2) popular collector specimens, 3) jewelry (cabochons), and 4) historical pigment for blue and green paint.

Geological facts

Azurite is unstable in open air compared to malachite and will frequently pseudomorph (chemically replace) into malachite over geological time while retaining the original crystal shape. Many 'blue' paintings from the Middle Ages have turned green because the azurite pigment converted to malachite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the striking contrast of deep blue and vibrant green 'bloom' on a host rock. Found in copper-rich mining districts like Bisbee, Arizona; Tsumeb, Namibia; and Morocco. Field identification is assisted by their reaction (fizzing) with dilute hydrochloric acid.

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