mineral
Azurite and Malachite
Copper Carbonates: Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2 (Azurite) and Cu2CO3(OH)2 (Malachite)
Color: Deep blue and vibrant green; Hardness: 3.5-4.0 on the Mohs scale; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal System: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.7-3.9.
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Deep blue and vibrant green
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More mineral →
Explore Azurite and Malachite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Color: Deep blue and vibrant green; Hardness: 3.5-4.0 on the Mohs scale; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal System: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.7-3.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed in the oxidized zones of copper ore deposits where carbonated waters interact with copper-bearing minerals. Common in arid climates.
Uses & applications
Used as a copper ore, in jewelry (cabochons), as mineral specimens for collectors, and historically as pigments for paint.
Geological facts
Azurite is often called the 'stone of heaven' and was used in ancient Egypt as a dye; it naturally weathers into green malachite over geological time through hydration.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blue and green color combination and its reaction (effervescence) with dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Arizona, Namibia, and Morocco.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous