
Azurite, a dark blue copper mineral, and malachite, a rich green copper mineral, are sometimes found in a combination called azurmalachite. Both are secondary minerals found in weathered copper deposits. When they undergo a process known as metasomatism, these two minerals can alter to become each other and when they form in proximity there can be intergrowth. The combination (as shown in our specimen image) exhibits the best of both minerals creating a vibrant, beautiful gemstone. This rich green and blue mineral combination is popular with lapidarists and collectors.
Gemological Information for Azurmalachite
Color: | Patterned Blue and Green |
Crystal Structure: | Rock |
Refractive Index: | 1.655 to 1.909 (Malachite) and 1.730 to 1.836 (Azurite) |
Durability: | Poor |
Hardness: | 3.5 to 4 |
Family: | |
Similar Stones: | Azurite, Malachite, Chlorastrolite, Lapis Lazuli |
Treatments: | Paraffin or Resin Impregnation |
Country of Origin: | France, Namibia, U.S., Australia, England, Romania, Russia, Zaire |
Azurmalachite Care
Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Never |
Steam Cleaning: | Never |
Warm Soapy Water: | Safe if Done Carefully |
Chemical Attack: | Attacked by Acids |
Light Sensitivity: | Stable |
Heat Sensitivity: | Affected |
Sources
- “Azurmalachite.” GeologyScience.com. https://geologyscience.com/gemstone/azurmalachite/ Accessed 12/17/2024.
- Gem Reference Guide, Los Angeles: Gemological Institute of America, 1988. Pp. 22-23.
- Schumann, Walter. Gemstones of the World, New York: Sterling Publishing, Co., 1977. Pp. 29.