Azurite with Malachite

The Bou Bekker mines at Touissit lie at the extreme eastern periphery of Morocco, at most only 2 km from the border with Algeria. Surprisingly, this district has only produced fourteen recorded species, but in most cases of remarkably high quality. This small cabinet specimen is a fine example of well crystallised Azurite covering a thin yet sturdy bed of massive Malachite. The Azurite forms stubby, equant composite crystals, typically between 6 and 10 mm in each dimension, all clustered around each other to create a continuous, uninterrupted bed. Although a deep azure blue, they are of sufficient brightness to display as vivid blue crystals rather than almost black, a common trait with Azurite. An impressive Azurite on Malachite which will look excellent on display.