Natural Azurite Malachite Specimen 44 gm

Description

Material
Natural Azurite- Malachite Specimen
Size
Weight 1.6 oz (44 gm)
Height 1.31 in
Length 1.58 in
Width 1.44 in
Condition
New
Country of Origin
China
Azurite-Malachite History
Azurite-malachite is a blend of two distinct and popular gems: the deep, almost lapis-like blues of azurite and the variegated green shades of banded malachite. The name azurite comes from
lazhward
, a Persian word for "blue," while "malachite" originally comes from the Greek word
molochitis
, meaning "mallow plant." The stone name can sometimes be shortened to
azurmalachite
.
The oldest mine known is at Timna Valley in Israel, in operation for over 3,000 years.
These two copper-based gemstones are frequently found in copper mines, or near mines of other copper-based gemstones such as turquoise and chrysocolla.
In ancient Egypt, Azurite--as a component of lapis lazuli--was used to create the protective blue eye of Horus. It was also ground for use as the pigment "mountain blue," "Armenian stone" or "Azurro Della Magna." Many medieval paintings of the Virgin Mary in a blue robe were long thought to be painted using lapis lazuli; chemical analysis has since indicated that azurite was used instead, from the well-known mines in France.
Azurite-Malachite Metaphysical Properties
The synthesis of azurite and malachite produces a mineral which is said to exhibit the properties of each individual stone, plus some which come uniquely from their partnership.
Azurite--sometimes called a "stone of heaven"--is commonly believed to provide insight into all areas of life, promote intuition, stimulate creativity, dissolve impediments and soften cold intellectualism with love and compassion. Malachite, with its striking green bands of color, has been said to encourage action, enact change, heal heartache, enhance creativity, increase fertility and protect the spirit.
United as azurite-malachite, it is believed this mineral blends different traits together, freshens the user's outlook on life, as well as dissolving egocentric characteristics; dispelling conceit, arrogance and vanity; calming anxiety and enhancing flexibility in motion and thought.
That is why jewelry makers love these stones both individually and together.
Azurite-Malachite Geological Properties
Azurite can appear in over 45 different forms. This stone changes in response to air, slowly turning into malachite over time. It is destroyed by heat, becoming a black copper oxide powder, and bubbles like a certain brand of cold tablet when exposed to hydrochloric acid! Malachite forms in a range of crystal shapes, including masses, tufts, rosettes, crusts and--occasionally--as stalagmites and stalactites. Some forms include a scattering of druzy crystals.
Proper Care of Azurite-Malachite
Azurite-malachite is a soft stone and its surface can be easily damaged. This copper carbonate combination is extremely sensitive to heat, as well as sun-bleaching. Always store in a dark place in a separate container from other jewelry pieces.
Anti-tarnish strips designed for copper
can slow down the process by which azurite converts to malachite and prolong the life of the stone as it currently is.
Clean azurite-malachite with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth, as even a soft toothbrush can scratch this stone. Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners as they can ruin the colors and damage the surface of azurite-malachite. Keep away from hot water, ovens and other hot surfaces. Do not leave in the sun.