Chemical Formula: Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2

Chemical Name: Hydrated Copper Carbonate

Mineral Class: Carbonate

Mineral Notes: Azurite is named from the Arabic word for blue, reflecting the intense blue colour. The colour is very distinctive, although the shade varies among specimens. It is formed by the action of carbon dioxide and water on primary copper sulfide ores. The mineral was occasionally mined as an ore of copper, but its main use was always as a pigment. However becuse it slowly oxidises to Malachite, the blue colour gradually changes to green, which has been a major problem for conservationists of paintings. Azurite forms many different crystal habits including fine crystal clusters, nodules and beautful combinations with its closely related cousin Malachite.

Description: A rich specimen of Azurite. Whilst there are several areas of the matrix covered with crystals, the best occurrence is in a small recess on the side. Here, the crystals are extremely well formed and many are quite large. They are extremely lustrous. Otherwise, the matrix also contains several areas of green Malachite. Some of this forms small botryoidal nodules that have an earthy lsuter. A rare specimen from a classic location.

Location: Lavrion Mine, Attica, Greece.