Comparison · Minerals
Azurite vs Malachite
Azurite and Malachite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Both sit near Mohs 3.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Azurite and Malachite
- Both sit near Mohs 3.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Azurite leaves a light blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Malachite leaves pale green.
- Luster is different: Azurite is vitreous while Malachite is silky.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Azurite is translucent, Malachite is opaque.
Azurite vs Malachite properties
| Property | Azurite | Malachite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 | 4 |
| Luster | vitreous | silky |
| Streak | Light blue | Pale green |
| Transparency | translucent | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 3.8 | 4 |
| Crystal system | monoclinic | monoclinic |
| Common colors | Deep Blue, Azure Blue | Green, Dark Green, Banded Green |
| Rarity | uncommon | common |
| Typical specimen value | $10–$500+ | $5–$200+ |
Which is more valuable?
Azurite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Malachite, and premium Azurite can reach $500 or more.
About Azurite
Azurite is a deep blue copper carbonate mineral, often found with green malachite. It was ground into pigment for the famous blue in Renaissance paintings.
About Malachite
Malachite is a vibrant green copper carbonate mineral known for its distinctive banded patterns. It has been used as a gemstone and pigment for thousands of years.
Azurite vs Malachite FAQ
Is Azurite the same as Malachite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 3.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Azurite from Malachite?
Both sit near Mohs 3.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Azurite leaves a light blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Malachite leaves pale green. Luster is different: Azurite is vitreous while Malachite is silky.
Which is harder, Azurite or Malachite?
Malachite is harder: Mohs 4 against Mohs 3.5 for Azurite.
Which is more valuable, Azurite or Malachite?
Azurite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Malachite, and premium Azurite can reach $500 or more.
