Gemstone Series - Azurite-Malachite

Azurite is an an intense deep blue color with a Mohs hardness between 3 and 4. Different sources claim the name is derived from the Persian word lazhward or from the Arabic word azul, both of which mean blue.

It often occurs with malachite, chrysocolla or turquoise in areas with copper deposits. A rare form called "Bluebird", has dark red Cuprite mixed with azurite .

Azurite is found in Australia, Chile, France, Mexico, Morocco, Nambia, the southwestern USA, and Zaire.

For thousands of years this stone has been used in jewelry and ornamental objects. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance it was ground into pigment for use in paint and eye shadow .

It is not known widely as a birthstone, but several references indicate it may have been used as a birthstone for the sign of Taurus.

                                                                                                                                                                                                      

                                                                

Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties:

Azurite was sacred to the Egyptians who believed it was an aid to spiritual communication.

Many believe that this stone helps to reduce anger and to increase psychic awareness. It is also thought to reduce abnormal cell growth, promote wisdom, and is used as an aid to relieve the paid of rheumatism.

Click here to see the next gemstone