Azurite

Well-known historically for superb Azurite and Malachite combination specimens, the Bisbee copper mining area in Warren District, Cochise County, Arizona is probably the most famous American locality for that association. That said, many specimens just simply don't have the 'wow' factor, either in terms of their crystal size, lustre, or aesthetic appeal. The latter is certainly not an issue with this beautiful miniature specimen from Bisbee, which looks like blue velvet. A thin bed of green layered Malachite forms the matrix of this piece, but is largely obscured by larger botryoidal growths of royal blue Azurite whose surfaces are made up of tiny individual glossy bladed crystals. It is likely that the crown of one botryoid is a little worn, but this only adds to its wonderful textural appearance which looks like a work of art. A very pretty Bisbee Azurite. Ex Reverend Michael Keirle, Dean of Jersey, no. MK/127, having come via Nick Carruth in the 1990s.