You are currently viewing Featured Crystal: Azurite

Featured Crystal: Azurite

This month’s crystal feature is the indigo blue Azurite – one of my favourite shades of blue! Read on to find out about the geological and metaphysical properties of this collectable beauty.

Geological

Azurite is a deep “azure” blue copper carbonate hydroxide mineral. It’s thought to have been first discovered in ancient Egypt. During the early 19th century it became known as Chessylite, after the type locality at Chessy-les-Mines near Lyon, France.

It is not a common mineral, especially since it is relatively soft, and heat sensitive (don’t charge yours in the sun!). Exposed to sunlight Azurite becomes “sun bleached” – i.e. it loses colour.

Azurite is a secondary mineral formed by the action of carbonated water acting on copper-containing minerals

Collecting

Azurite is usually massive or nodular. In rare situations, Azurite is found as stalactitic and botryoidal growths.

Well-formed monoclinic crystals are most rare. These most prized crystalline specimens usually originate in Namibia or Morocco. For some truly drool-worthy specimens, check out THIS PHOTO COLLECTION on Mindat.

A special find in Australia is noted for what are called “Azurite Suns” – flat disc shaped formations of beautiful blue Azurite against a white Kaolinite matrix. You can read more about these in this in depth article on Cape Town Gem & Mineral Club, “AZURITE SUNS: MINERAL MASTERPIECES FROM AUSTRALIA

It’s often found in combination with other copper related minerals: Azurite is best mates with Chrysocolla, Shattuckite, Plancheite and Malachite. They make incredible combination specimens with shades of blue, green and turquoise. All highly collectable minerals!

Azurite suns and balls from the Malbunka Copper Mine at Dehne McLaughlin’s stall at the Broken Hill Gem and Mineral Show, 2011 – photo from TreasureMountainMining.com

Crystal Healing

Azurite resonates with both the throat chakra and the third eye chakra, helping us to express a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us (both seen and unseen). It is said to guide psychic and intuitive development, assisting in boosting our natural abilities.

It brings clear understanding and new perspectives, expanding the mind and raising consciousness. Long term blocks in communication can be released while memory is stimulated. 

A powerful healing stone, Azurite can help clear away stress, worry, grief and sadness, allowing light into emotions. It’s said to aid in letting go of fears and phobias by bringing the keys to understanding why they were there. 

For Sale In The Shop