What's That Rock?Azurite
A deep blue copper mineral. Over time it can change into green malachite.
Safety
Contains copper. Do not make water infusions from it. Avoid breathing dust and wash hands after handling.
How to identify Azurite
- Rich deep blue
- Soft: easily scratched by a knife
- Fizzes in dilute acid
- Often grows with green malachite
Often confused with
- Lapis lazuliharder, with pyrite flecks
- Sodalite
- Dyed howlite
Real or fake?
- Azurite is soft and fades with heat or light; very bright, hard 'azurite' may be something else
Is Azurite valuable?
Moderate.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$20–300each
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Crystal quality: sharp, glossy, deep blue crystals are collector grade; dull crusts are cheap
- Pairing: azurite with green malachite makes a prized combination ('azurite sun' and balls)
- Origin: Tsumeb, Morocco and Arizona (Bisbee) specimens cost the most
- Condition: soft and sensitive to light and heat, so unfaded color matters
Uses
- Collectors' specimens, beads, historic pigment
Care
Fragile and sensitive to heat, light and moisture. Store dry and dark.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026