Azurite-Malachite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameAzurite-Malachite
Chemical FormulaCu3(CO3)2(OH)2 (Azurite) + Cu2(CO3)(OH)2 (Malachite)
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorlight blue (azurite), light green (malachite)
CleavageAzurite: Good on {011}, fair on {100}; Malachite: Perfect on {201}, good on {001}
Fractureconchoidal to uneven/subconchoidal
Specific Gravity3.6
Colorsblue, green
Transparencytranslucent to opaque
Type LocalityBisbee, Warren District, Mule Mts, Arizona, USA
Mineral GroupCarbonates
Usesornamental stone, pigment, minor copper ore, collector's item
Associated Mineralscuprite, native copper, chrysocolla, tenorite, limonite
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a striking combination of deep azure blue azurite crystals intergrown with vibrant green malachite, often appearing as botryoidal or fibrous masses.
Geological Context
Azurite and malachite are secondary copper carbonate minerals that form in the oxidized zones of copper ore deposits, typically resulting from the alteration of primary copper sulfides.
