Azurite
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameAzurite
Chemical FormulaCu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorlight blue
Cleavagegood on {011}, poor on {100}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity3.8
Colorsdark blue, violet-blue, azure blue
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityTsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia
Mineral Groupcarbonates
Usesore of copper, pigment, collector, minor gemstone
Associated Mineralsmalachite, native copper, cuprite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features a cluster of dark blue to violet-blue azurite crystals, exhibiting a brilliant vitreous luster and a tabular habit. Some areas show brighter blue hues and hints of green, possibly associated malachite.
Geological Context
Azurite is a secondary copper mineral that forms in the oxidized zone of copper ore deposits, typically in arid or semi-arid regions. It often occurs in association with malachite, forming from the alteration of primary copper sulfides.
