Azurite

AT A GLANCE

Diaphaneity:

Refractive Index:

Luster:

Mohs Hardness:

Semitranslucent – Opaque

1.730 – 1.838

Vitreous

3.5 – 4.0


MORE INFORMATION

Azurite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral. It is best known for its characteristic deep blue to violet-blue color. The blue color, known as “azure,” is like the deep blue evening skies often seen above deserts and winter landscapes.

Azurite is a secondary mineral that usually forms when carbon-dioxide-laden waters descend into the Earth and react with subsurface copper ores. Azurite is not a common or abundant mineral, but it is beautiful and its blue color attracts attention.

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

There are records of its use also in Japan and Ancient Egypt. Replaced when “Prussian blue” is discovered in the 18th century, azurite was the most important blue pigment in European painting throughout the middle ages and Renaissance. It was made artificially from the 17th century.

Soaked in spiritual power, Azurite is well known for its wealth of healing energy and for turning up the volume on secret psychic abilities. For anyone who has been attracted to the idea of tapping into their own clairvoyance, connecting with their intuition, and seeking guidance from spirit guides – Azurite could be just the stone to open those doors. While the swirling blue stone may be best known for its cosmic connections, that doesn’t mean it falls short when serving the emotional and spiritual body too.

Clean Azurite with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth, as even a soft toothbrush can scratch this stone. Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners as they can ruin the colors and damage the surface of Azurite. Keep away from hot water, ovens and other hot surfaces.

Color Range:

Dark Blue To Violet Blue

Major Sources:

Egypt, Russia, Peru, France, Namibia, Australia, Chile And The United States.