Azurita
Azurita is a mineral with formula Cu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂, in the Carbonatos group. This specimen comes from Kerrouchene, Caïdat de Kerrouchen, Khénifra, Béni Mellal-Khénifra, Marruecos and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.
Description
Dark blue azurite crystals in a small cavity lined with calcite microcrystals. Pinkish-grey brecciated matrix.
About Azurita
Azurite is a secondary copper carbonate that forms in the oxidised zone of copper deposits. It is valued for its deep blue colour and varied crystal habits. This piece is notable for its cavity growth on a brecciated matrix coated with microcrystalline calcite, which reacts under UV light.
About the locality
Kerrouchene is a classic Moroccan locality, known for well-defined azurite crystals, often accompanied by calcite and malachite. Cavities develop in brecciated matrices, and crystals commonly show tabular or rosette habit. Production is intermittent and artisanal.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0004
- Composition
- Cu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂
- Name
- Azurita
- Group
- Carbonatos
- Category
- Cavella
- Matrix
- Brecha
- Associations
- Calcita
- Mine
- Kerrouchene
- District / Municipality
- Caïdat de Kerrouchen
- Province
- Khénifra
- Region
- Béni Mellal-Khénifra
- Country
- Marruecos
- Size (cm)
- 8 x 6 x 4
- Acquired
- 2025
- Etymology
- From Persian 'lazhward' (blue).
- Quality
- Muy buena
- Value trend
- Estable
Related specimens
- Abellaíta — España
- Acantita (Paramórfica tras Argentita) — Marruecos
- Andersonita — España
- Andradita (Melanita) — Marruecos
- Apatito — Marruecos
- Aragonito (Pantojo) — España
- Aragonito (Azul (Toralina)) — España
- Aragonito — Italia