Azurite - knowledge base, jewelry
Properties of azurite, physiological effects, zodiac signs and azurite jewelry.
Azurite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral.
It is best known for its characteristic deep blue to purple-blue color. Azurite is a secondary mineral that is usually formed when water filled with carbon dioxide seeps into the surface and reacts with underground copper ores. The carbonic acid content of these waters dissolves a small amount of copper from the ore. Dissolved copper travels with water until it reaches a new geochemical environment. This new environment can be a place where the chemistry or temperature of the water changes or where evaporation occurs. If conditions are right, mineral azure may be formed. If these conditions persist, significant azurite accumulation may develop. It can be found in many parts of the world.
Chemical and physical properties of azurite:
Formula:
Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2
Crystal system:
monoclinic
Category:
carbonate mineral
Color:
azure, dark or light blue
Streak:
light blue
Transparency:
translucent- opaque
Cleavage:
perfect
Fracture:
conchoidal
Mohs scale hardeness:
3,5 – 4,0
Specific gravity:
3,8 g/cm³
Major metaphysical healing properties attributed to azurite:
Helps with thyroid function, cataract treatment, arthritis, throat problems, straightens the spine, penetrates cells to restore brain-related complaints, kidney, gallbladder and liver problems, supports skin, bones, teeth, helps with embryos and worry.
Use of azurite
Azurite is not a common mineral, but its beautiful blue color attracts attention. It has been used for many millennia around the world. It was used by ancient people as copper ore, pigment, gemstone and ornamental stone. It still has this field of application today.
Occurence of azurite
USA Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, France, Namibia, Mexico, Chile, Austria, Russia, Morocco.