Azurite with Malachite

specimen number:
2354226

location:
Chessy Mines, Rhone, France

description:
Nice French classic, blocky crystals of azurite measuring to 1.0 cm in size forming a matrix less cluster. Some of the larger crystals are in the process of being replaced by green malachite. This is crystallized naturally all around and in great condition.

Located in the department of Rhone, France, the Chessy Mines are famous for their unique stratabound copper mineralization hosted within Triassic sandstone formations overlying Paleozoic basement rocks, where circulating copper-rich hydrothermal solutions interacted with carbonate minerals. The historic mining site is globally renowned in mineralogy as the type locality for chessylite, a brilliant deep blue copper carbonate mineral commonly known as azurite, which was extensively extracted alongside malachite during the 19th century. Although commercial mining operations eventually ceased due to depletion and economic factors, the location remains legendary among historical mining historians and mineral collectors for producing magnificent, highly coveted crystal specimens.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.