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Azurite

Introduction
 

	Azurite (copper carbonate hydroxide) is easily identified by its spectacular blue color. The color is due to the presence of copper (a strong coloring agent) and the way the copper chemically combines with the carbonate groups and hydroxyls.
	Azurite comes from the Arabic word for blue “Azul”.
	Named for its intense coloring, Azurite is so essentially blue that it has been used as a pigment for centuries.

Azurite has been valued as a pigment and dye since antiquity and was particularly popular among painters in the Middle Ages. Today, it is still used to manufacture fine quality artist’s paints.
 

Azurite is believed to illuminate the mind by clearing it of subconscious thoughts. Crystal healers believe Azurite can help those who want to better understand their fears and desires. Some also believe Azurite gives the wearer visionary powers. It is also used by some to help people evaluate then dissolve unwanted beliefs. Some say this gem will make you more creative.
 

Some noted medicinal uses are to help heal the throat, spleen and spine. Some believe it’s wise to place a piece of Azurite on a part of the body where there is a feeling of congestion or blockage. Furthermore, Azurite is said to fortify the memory and enhance intellectual receptivity. One of the most common uses claimed for Azurite is its alleged ability to ease the pain of rheumatism. Maybe this could be due to its close relationship with copper?
 

A basic carbonate of copper, Azurite is found wherever there are copper deposits. It is a secondary mineral, created by weathering in the upper oxidation zone of copper ore. It is formed by water containing carbon dioxide reacting with limestone. Azurite often forms sharp crystals that are either tabular, or short and prismatic. It is frequently found in association with Malachite, its green cousin that results from the further oxidation of Azurite.
 

Azurite and Malachite are occasionally found mixed in a gem called Azurmalachite, which is noted for its beautiful blue/green patterns. A rarer Azurite mixture, known as “Bluebird”, is Azurite mixed with dark red Cuprite.
 

Azurite is very popular among collectors, and is highly in demand. Bright blue pieces are cut into cabochons and beads, and large masses are sometimes cut into ornamental objects. Good polishing enhances Azurite, giving it an almost adamantine (i.e. diamond like) luster. Azurmalachite is carved as cabochons and beads displaying striking bands of deep blue and bright green.
 

Fine Azurite is found in many locations around the world. The largest crystals found so far have come from Tsumeb, Namibia (some massive works are part of the collection in Moscow at the Hermitage Museum). It is also found in France, Greece, Germany, England, Australia, Mexico and U.S.A.