Azurite geode Morocco

Azurite geode from the Bou-Azzer mine south of Ouarzazate in Morocco.

Dimensions: length 73mm x width 43mm x height 55mm

Weight: 180g 

Chemical formula and composition: Azurite has the chemical formula Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2. It is composed of copper carbonate.

Hardness on the Mohs scale: Azurite's hardness is between 3.5 and 4 on the Mohs scale.

Density: The density of azurite varies from 3.7 to 3.9 (a high density means that the stone is relatively heavy for its size).

Colour and possible variations: Azurite is typically intense blue to dark blue, sometimes with shades of green due to the presence of malachite, with which it is often found associated.

Azurite has been used since ancient times, both for its blue pigment and for its ornamental properties. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used azurite to make paint pigments. In the Middle Ages, it was ground to create high-quality pigments used in illuminated manuscripts and paintings. 

Today, it is prized mainly for its beauty and intense colour in mineralogical collections.