Azurite Chrysocolla Meaning and Properties

Azurite and chrysocolla are both minerals and sometimes they are found together as one called “Azurite Chrysocolla.”

Picture this: Azurite has a deep blue hue while chrysocolla can range from blue to brown or even green. When these two come together as azurite chrysocolla, it has an interesting blend of blue from azurite and green from chrysocolla. They join forces when copper ore undergoes some changes and oxidizes. The result is a soft and earthy-looking stone. You can find it in a lot of forms, from beads to shiny polished stones. It’s pretty popular in jewelry or just as a decorative stone as well.

In today’s guide, let’s talk about azurite chrysocolla in detail, from its history to metaphysical meanings.

What is azurite?

At its core, azurite is made of hydrated copper carbonate, known in the science world as Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2. Its weight? Well, it has a density of 3.8.  And visually, it’s captivating with its deep blue shades, sometimes almost as dark as night. If you catch it in the right light, you might even see through it, giving it a glass-like shine.

How does this gem form?

Picture carbonate water mingling with copper ores. This combo moves copper deposits into an area rich with carbonate rocks and water full of copper sulfates. Interestingly, azurite forms the same way malachite does. So, don’t be surprised if you find them together.

While Azurite pops up in various parts of the world, some hotspots include Arizona, Morocco, Mexico, and Russia. But, while it’s pretty to look at, it’s not the toughest of stones. On the Mohs scale (which is like a stone’s strength meter), it’s between 3.5 to 4. That means Azurite is on the delicate side.

What is chrysocolla?

Chrysocolla is part of the cyclosilicate family. Its scientific name is quite a mouthful: (Cu,Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4-nH2O. It’s a blend of several elements like oxygen, silica, copper, aluminum, and hydrogen, and it’s got a density of 2.2.

How does it form?

Imagine water, rich in silica, flowing over copper veins. This interaction alters copper deposits, leading to chrysocolla’s creation. Sometimes, it can take different shapes like crusts or even resemble icicles. Plus, it can mix with other minerals, so you might spot traces of it in stones like azurite, malachite, and even quartz.

Despite its beauty, Chrysocolla is a bit fragile, mainly because it doesn’t hold much water and can’t stand too much heat. Jewelers even find it a bit tricky to work with because of its softness.  On the Mohs scale, it ranges between 2 and 4. So, just like Azurite, it’s somewhat delicate.

Chrysocolla has some interesting varieties too, such as the “Eilat stone.”  It is like a mineral cocktail of chrysocolla, azurite, malachite, and turquoise.  This variety was discovered in King Solomon’s old copper mines.  If it pairs up with quartz, it will be known as “chrysocolla quartz.”

Though Chrysocolla has a global presence, you will mainly find it in places like Australia, Germany, the U.S., Russia, England, Congo-Kinshasa, and France.

Azurite chrysocolla meaning

Azurite stands as a beacon for spiritual journeying and personal growth. It’s intimately connected with the third eye chakra, encouraging spiritual grounding. The crown chakra, responsible for aligning our physical and mental states, also resonates with azurite. As for star signs, it vibes well with Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Libra. And if you’re marking 56 years of marriage, Azurite makes a meaningful gift.

On the flip side, Chrysocolla embodies friendship, peace, and togetherness. It has a special bond with the throat chakra, enhancing communication, and the heart chakra, promoting love and companionship. Those born under Libra, Gemini, or Sagittarius might find a natural affinity for Chrysocolla. And for those celebrating 26 years of wedded bliss, this stone symbolizes the journey.

Azurite chrysocolla properties

Azurite is well-known in the realm of lithotherapy, often referred to as a health booster. When we talk about its effects on the body and mind, there’s much to admire. Mentally, wearing azurite is said to heighten our thinking abilities and overall alertness, making us feel sharper and more in tune with our surroundings.

But there’s also a spiritual side to azurite. It’s said to remove any roadblocks on one’s spiritual journey, forging a stronger connection with unseen realms. Moreover, embracing this stone can help find balance, grounding both your mind and body in perfect harmony.

On the physical front, if you’ve ever had issues with your throat or found speaking a challenge, chrysocolla is thought to assist.

Psychologically speaking, chrysocolla acts like a shield, warding off negativity. Whether it’s envy, stress, or any other emotional turbulence, this stone aims to bring peace to its wearer. It’s also a champion of communication, fostering better understanding and relationships.

Simply put, azurite and chrysocolla together make a powerhouse duo for healing and serenity, targeting both your physical and emotional needs.

The history of Azurite

Azurite got its name from a Persian word “lazhward“, which means blue, and it perfectly describes its color. Throughout history, different cultures had their names for it. The ancient Greeks, for instance, referred to it as “kuanos”, hinting at its cyan shade. They got their supply from places like Armenia and Cyprus. A wise man named Theophrastus even wrote about it in his book, calling it “Gemstone d’Arménie”.

Jumping to the Middle Ages, in France, they had a different name for it, “Chessylite,” because of the town it was commonly found in. They even used it to add color to their books. But it was only in 1824 that it got the name “Azurite”, thanks to François Sulpice Beudant, a guy who knew a lot about minerals. Now, that’s the name everyone, including the big mineral association (IMA), agrees on.

Ancient Egyptians believed in its power. They turned it into powder and drew a third eye, hoping it’d boost their abilities. For the Mayans, it was all about connecting to the unseen world. Meanwhile, folks in Atlantis found it soothing. Nowadays, people appreciate Azurite not just for its look but also for the belief in its healing touch.

The history of chrysocolla

Chrysocolla’s name is actually Greek for “golden glue.” Why? The philosopher Theophrastus named it in 315 B.C. because it was used like glue when working with gold.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, people believed this stone had healing powers. There’s even a tale that Cleopatra wore Chrysocolla to keep her cool. By the time of the Renaissance, artists used Chrysocolla pigments to make their paintings come alive.

From the 19th century and even now, it’s been a top choice for jewelry, especially when paired with gold. Many see Chrysocolla as a symbol of water and think of it as nature’s best friend.

Cleaning and purification

Dry Cleaning:  The gentlest method, using a soft microfiber cloth, can help get rid of any superficial dust or debris.

Steam Cleaning: Though an effective method, one must be cautious. Ensure the stone doesn’t touch water, and the steam is lukewarm to prevent any potential damage.

Cleaning with Oil: Oils like jojoba or olive can help protect the stone’s sheen. Dab a small quantity on a soft cloth and gently rub the stone.

Purification by Sunlight: Exposing the stone to the gentle morning sun can help in its purification. However, prolonged exposure might be harmful.

Purification with Incense: The aromatic smoke from incense can cleanse azurite chrysocolla. Pass the stone through the smoke a few times for purification.

Recharging

Solar Recharging: Though the sun can invigorate the stone, be mindful. Too much exposure can lead to the stone losing its luster.

Moonlit Recharge: The serene energy of the moon, especially during a full moon, can rejuvenate the stone.

Earthen Embrace:  Burying the stone in salt or directly in the earth allows it to tap into the planet’s natural energies.

Fumigation Recharging: Just as with purification, the smoke from specific incense can re-energize it.

Crystal Companionship: Placing this stone alongside others like amethyst or rose quartz can help in its recharging. Their resonating energies can amplify each other.

NOTE:  Azurite chrysocolla is a delicate stone. Using water for cleaning can be detrimental. Its soft nature means it’s prone to scratches, discoloration, and even cracking if it comes into contact with moisture or if it’s exposed to rough handling. Always handle with care and store in a dry place away from direct sunlight.