Name: Azurite
Brand: Crystal Classics
Price: 950 USD
Availability: InStock

Updated 3d ago

Azurite

Burra Burra mine in South Australia is one of Australia's most famous copper mines, both for its production history and preserved mineral specimens. Started in 1845, it worked a very extensive zone of supergene (oxidized) copper ore through opencast operations. The earliest phase of mining 1845 to 1877 produced the highest ore grades (700,000 tons, averaging 7 % Cu) from copper carbonate ores (Azurite and Malachite). A revival between 1970 and 1981 saw larger volumes but significantly lower ore grades. In the early days of mining gem-quality Malachite was famous as were nodules of Azurite. However, excellent nodules of Azurite were also found during the more modern period of mining, recovered by collectors from kaolinized rock outcropping near the surface. Generally speaking, the Azurite nodules look more interesting internally, than externally, and I think that this quite large nodule shows this very well. It is from David Hardman's collection and at 5.5 cm across in its widest dimension it is not only quite large for what is usually seen available but displays a rather nice transition in colour internally, with a lovely radiating structure outwards to terminated crystals. Externally, the Azurite crystals are darker, and do have some damage to the surface where it buried in kaolinite clay. A lovely, classic Burra Burra mine Azurite, where collecting is no longer permitted.

$950.00