Mineral Specimans Newsgroup

Location: USA, SALEM PORT

Azurite with Malachite (Natural).
Azurite with Malachite (Natural) Measures 2.2" x 4" x 1.375" weighs 11.1 ounces Azurite is one of the two basic copper carbonate minerals, the other being bright green malachite. It is a soft, deep blue copper mineral produced by weathering of copper ore deposits. Azurite is unstable in open air with respect to malachite, and often is pseudomorphically replaced by malachite. Azurite is also incompatible with aquatic media, such as saltwater aquariums. The intense color of azurite makes it a popular collector's stone. However, bright light, heat, and open air all tend to reduce the intensity of its color over time. To help preserve the deep blue color of a pristine azurite specimen, collectors should use a cool, dark, sealed storage environment similar to that of its original natural setting.