Azurite-Malachite Meaning and Properties
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 μολοχιτης (molochitis), meaning "mallow plant." The stone name can sometimes be shortened to azurmalachite. It is commonly cut into cabochons or carved into small objets d'art. 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 . (A blend of azurite, malachite, turquoise and chrysocolla, called "Eilat stone," is named after the Middle Eastern city of Eilat, where it was once mined. Eilat stone, also known as King Solomon's stone, is the national stone of Israel.)
In ancient Egypt, azurite was used to create the protective blue eye of Horus. Malachite was associated with the Egyptian love goddess, Hathor, and was ground to be used as the base for eyeshadow, which was, unfortunately, toxic. Ironically, the ancient Egyptians thought wearing malachite would protect them from epidemics.
During the Middle Ages, azurite was ground for use as the pigment called "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 .
What are the Metaphysical Properties of Azurite-Malachite?
Azurite-malachite meaning is complex and varied. 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 that this mineral blends different traits together, freshens the user's outlook on life, as well as dissolving egocentric characteristics and dispelling conceit, arrogance and vanity. Azurite-malachite meaning is associated with calming anxiety and enhancing flexibility in motion and thought.
That is why jewelry makers love these stones both individually and together.
What is Azurite-Malachite Made From?
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.
Azurite-malachite (like its separate stones) is toxic in its raw state, and care must be used when handling, grinding, cutting and polishing rough. Always wear goggles and a facemask when cutting gemstone materials, and do not inhale the dust. Do not immerse in water or lick the stone when using for crystal healing.
Azurite-malachite has been found in Africa, Southeast Asia, Central America, China and the USA.
Azurite
- Mineral Information: Copper carbonate, aragonite group
- Chemical Composition: Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2
- Color: Dark blue (sky blue streak)
- Hardness: 3-1/2 to 4 (Mohs)
- Specific Gravity: 3.7 – 3.9
- Refractive Index: 1.730 – 1.838
Malachite
- Mineral Information: Copper carbonate, aragonite group
- Chemical Composition: Cu2CO3(OH)2
- Color: Light green, emerald green, black-green (light green streak)
- Hardness: 3-1/2 to 4 (Mohs)
- Specific Gravity: 3.75 – 3.95
- Refractive Index: 1.655 – 1.909
How Do You Clean 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.
Azurite-Malachite FAQ
Q: Is azurite-malachite a rare gemstone?
A: Azurite-malachite is relatively rare, as it forms under very specific conditions in which the geochemical conditions alternate between those needed to form azurite and those needed for malachite.
Q: Is azurite-malachite a real gemstone or manmade?
A: Azurite-malachite is a natural gemstone, found near copper deposits or in locations where other copper-based gemstones are mined.
Q: Can you find azurite-malachite in the Unites States?
A: Azurite-malachite has been found in Africa, Southeast Asia, Central America, China and the USA.
Q: What is the blue gemstone in azurite-malachite?
A: Azurite provides the stunning blue hues in azurite-malachite, while malachite is the green gemstone.
Q: Does azurite-malachite fade in color over time?
A: While the deep greens of malachite will remain strong, azurite’s brilliant blue will fade over time. Be sure to store azurite-malachite in a cool dark place to maintain its vibrant blue hues.
Q: Is it true that azurite-malachite shouldn't be used in bracelets?
A: Azurite-malachite is soft and easily scratched. It’s best for jewelry that gets less abrasion than a bracelet, like necklaces, earrings and brooches.
Designing with Azurite-Malachite
Azurite-malachite combines two popular color palettes—blue and green—which makes it a common stone in both men's and women's jewelry designs. This same color blend means it's a good stone for transitional jewelry pieces, casual enough for daytime wear and elegant enough for evening styles.
The mingling of blue and green patterns make this a popular stone to cut en cabochon—as a cabochon—or in smooth-surfaced beads. Azurite-malachite is a soft stone which does not take or maintain faceting well. Protect beads with bead caps and cabochons with cabochon mountings and settings to prevent wear.
Because azurite-malachite’s colors and unique patterns are so striking, it’s recommended to use it in simple settings so nothing distracts from its beauty. Give this gemstone center stage and let it speak for itself in jewelry that other people will admire and remember.
Shop for Azurite-Malachite
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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