History and Science
Azurite is a soft, deep-blue copper mineral produced by weathering of copper ore deposits, often found in association with other copper ore minerals such as malachite. Although there are many places that azurite can be found, the mineral itself isn't at all abundant, especially in its pure form of deep, sparkly blue. As it usually occurs in association with larger deposits of copper, it is usually only mined if an adequate grade/amount is found in an active copper mine.
In addition to its religious and ornamental uses throughout the ancient world, azurite was ground and used as a pigment as early as Ancient Egypt to create "Azure" blue paints. However, as it was extremely costly and prone to breaking down over time, Azure began to be replaced by Prussian Blue in the Middle Ages and eventually by synthetic blue pigments in modern day.
Malachite is also a copper mineral that can be found in botryoidal, fibrous, or stalactitic masses, usually in combination with other minerals.
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Metaphysical Properties
Since Azurite has been found in so many places but is at the same time rather rare, it has been linked to powerful ancient legends from all over the globe! The Ancient Chinese called it "The Stone of Heaven" believing that it could open celestial gateways. Similarly, some Native American cultures believed that Azurite could help them contact and receive messages from their spirit guides.
Like many blue crystals, azurite has a link to calm and balance. For Azurite in particular, this is a balance of emotions via a dispelling of conceit and vanity and a calming of anxiety via an increase in mental flexibility. These are the qualities that ancient cultures believed allowed for increased contact with heavenly realms and which people today still believe allows for a higher level of spiritual growth.
Azurite is often found in association with Malachite, a "Power Heart Stone" with protective properties that puts you on the path to success and prosperity through healing of the heart and protection of the spirit. Together, they are especially powerful for spiritual growth!
