Azurite-malachite, sometimes referred to as azurmalachite, is a blend of two very popular gems: the deep blue of azurite and the green shades of malachite. These two copper-based gemstones are often found in copper mines or near other copper-based gemstones such as turquoise and chrysocolla, and it has a history going back more than 4,000+ years ago.
Chemically, the two are almost identical, as azurite is a primary copper-derived mineral, but malachite is a secondary mineral when the primary is oxidized. If you see that azurite is on the bottom or in the center, then the oxidation process only occurred once, however, if the minerals are more in a striped pattern, then it means the oxidation process happened multiple times.
While both of these stones have their traditions, their combined form has many properties, as you’re about to see.
What is azurite malachite?
Azurite and malachite are two different pieces, but because of the related copper carbonate minerals, they are often found together while being mined.
Azurite is a softer, deeper blue copper miner produced by the weathering of copper ore deposits, and you will usually find it with green malachite, another copper carbonate mineral. Historically, azurite has been used as a blue pigment in dyes and paintings. It’s also very popular amongst mineral collectors and jewelry makers.
Malachite, on the other hand, is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral and its name comes from “mallow,” which is a Greek word for a green herb. Just like azurite, malachite has also been used as a pigment and decorative stone for thoughts of years. Famous for its green color, it’s commonly used in jewelry.
When you do find these two minerals together, often in the same deposits, it will be referred to as azurite malachite. The deep blues from azurite and contrasting greens from malachite make it an attractive piece.
Azurite malachite properties
Color: Azurite will have a deeper blue hue, whereas malachite brings vibrant green colors, resulting in a striking combination.
Cleavage: It exhibits poor to fair cleavage, meaning it can break along certain planes.
Hardness: Azurite has a hardness of 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale, while Malachite is slightly softer at 3.5-4. This scale will determine how scratch resistant it is with lower numbers more susceptible to scratches.
Luster: This combination displays more of a vitreous to silky luster.
Mineral composition: Azurite-Malachite is a combination of two copper carbonates, Azurite (Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2) and Malachite (Cu2(CO3)(OH)2).
Azurite malachite metaphysical meaning
Combined energy: When these two rocks are combined, it’s said to blend the calming, soothing vibrations of azurite with the healing, transformational energies of malachite.
Confidence: It’s a stone that’s said to help bolster your self confidence and emotional understanding.
Creativity: Azurite is a transformation stone that may lead to inspiration and creativity.
Emotional healing: Malachite is said to help absorb negative energies and provide you with emotional healing. It’s also associated with transformation and can help you deal with any past traumas.
Mental clarity: Azurite, is often associated with mental clarity and understanding, making the combination a popular choice for those who are often indecisive.
Protection: Historically, malachite has been known as a stone of protection. It was said to help guard against accidents and even shield against negative energies.
What does azurite malachite do spiritually?
Clearing: Azurite-Malachite is also associated with energetic clearing and protection. It’s said to help you clear negative energies and protect against psychic attacks, creating a safe environment.
Enhanced meditation: This stone combination is often used during meditation and other spiritual practices. It’s said to help quiet the mind as well as help with your meditative state. It may help with self discovery and alignment.
Spiritual growth and wisdom: Azurite is highly believed to simulate your mind as well as enhance your spiritual wisdom. It’s commonly used in mediation as it’s believed to clear your mind and open the door to intuition.
Intuition: This combination is thought to enhance your intuition and provide a deeper insight into your spiritual matters. It’s believed to stimulate your third chakra, which can help connect to your inner guidance.
Transformation: It’s often associated with spiritual growth, as mentioned, but it closely resonates with transformation as well. This is believed to help assist with older patterns, blockages and limitations.
How is azurite malachite formed?
Azurite-Malachite is formed when copper minerals in the earth’s crust undergo a process that’s known as weathering. When copper ore deposits containing minerals such as chalcopyrite are exposed to air, water, and chemicals, it will allow the mineral to change and oxidize. Azurite will form when the copper reacts with carbonate ions in the environment, but as the weathering continues, this azurite can transform into malachite through further reactions with carbon dioxide and water. Sometimes, azurite and malachite can be found together in the same area, but this will depend on the pH, temperature, and the presence of carbonates. The process will vary, but this is generally how it’s formed in nature.
Where is azurite malachite found?
Azurite-Malachite is found in various locations around the world where copper ore deposits exist. Some notable locations can include:
- Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly the Katanga Copper Crescent in the southeastern part of the country
- Mexico, with notable deposits in the states of Sonora, Chihuahua, and Guerrero
- The United States, mainly Arizona
- Australia, such as Western Australia and South Australia
- Morocco, such as the Oumjrane and Milpillas mines.
- The Tsumeb Mine in Namibia has yielded notable specimens of Azurite-Malachite
- Various regions in China, such as Guangdong and Hubei, have copper deposits with this combination
Is azurite malachite rare?
Azurite-Malachite is considered a relatively common mineral combination, but high quality specimens can be harder to find. The abundance of azurite malachite will vary depending on the specific location and mining activities, as some areas can yield larger quantities than others. The rarity will depend on the size, quality and desirability. For example, unique color patterns and larger crystal sizes can be much rarer than a basic mineral combination.
Azurite malachite chakras
Azurite and malachite are closely associated with the heart and third eye chakra. It’s believed it can help clear blockages and promote the free flow of energy, which is said to help aid in self expression and the processing of feelings.
Azurite malachite is connected to the third eye chakra, which is located in the center of your forehead, slightly above the space between your eyebrows. This is the chakra that’s associated with intuition, inner vision, wisdom, and spiritual awareness. When this chakra is activated, it’s said to help enhance your psychic abilities, intuitive insight, and spiritual vision.
It also resonates with the heart chakra, which is located in the center of your chest. This is the chakra that governs love, compassion, emotional healing, and harmonious relationships. This stone is said to help open and activate this chakra, which can help facilitate emotional healing, balancing your emotions, and promoting empathy and compassion.
How to clean and care for azurite malachite
Cleaning and caring for your azurite malachite requires special attention due to its softness and sensitivity. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Gentle cleanings: Make sure you use lukewarm water and a milder soap. Use a soft cloth to wipe the surface gently and always avoid using harsh chemicals as this can damage the stone.
Avoid heat: If you can, try to avoid any heat or sunlight, as this stone is sensitive to it. Prolonged exposure can cause color fading or damage.
Avoid chemicals: Do not use any ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners or harsh chemicals. Any of these substances can damage the stone’s surface.
Limited exposure to water: Water is okay for the stone, but you will want to make sure you minimize the exposure. Avoid immersing the stone in the water for long periods of time.
What is the benefit of azurite malachite?
- enhances intuition
- stimulates the third eye chakra
- supports emotional balance
- may promote clarity
- facilitate personal growth
- deepens meditation state
- may protect from negative energies
- encourages compassion and empathy
- promotes a harmonious flow of energy in the body
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