Azurite

Unknown Owner

Attractive deep blue sparkling crystallized azurite across the front of matrix. In good condition. Minor malachite is present.The Liufengshan Mine, located in the Guichi District of Anhui Province, China, is a significant polymetallic deposit known for its diverse mineralogy and high-quality specimens. Geologically, the site is situated within the Lower Yangtze metallogenic belt, characterized by skarn-type mineralization formed at the contact between Mesozoic quartz diorite intrusions and Paleozoic carbonate rocks. This hydrothermal activity resulted in rich concentrations of copper, iron, and lead-zinc ores, along with a variety of secondary minerals. Historically, while mining in the Anhui region has ancient roots, the Liufengshan Mine saw intensive modern development during the mid to late 20th century as part of China's industrial expansion. The locality gained international prominence in the mineral collecting community during the 1990s and early 2000s for its world-class specimens of azurite and malachite. These specimens are particularly prized for their deep blue color, sharp crystal habits, and frequent association with velvety primary malachite, making the mine a classic reference locality for Chinese carbonates.