Azurite is one of the most sought-after copper related species. It has been known for several thousand years, but was known primarily by its vibrant blue color: in Latin as caeruleum, Greek as kuanos or "deep blue", and Persian as lazhward. Most are familiar with azurite through painting. It was considered among the most important and valuable pigments during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Many artists famously used this pigment to create glorious blue colors.

To mineral collectors, azurite conjures up some of the most storied of all mines in the world: Tsumeb in Namibia, Bisbee in Arizona, and Chessy in France. For nearly a century, these mines produced all of the truly great azurite specimens. From 2007 to 2020, a new contender for best of species emerged: the Milpillas Mine in Mexico. This mine put forth many of the finest known azurite specimens the world has ever seen.

This viewing room is dedicated to azurite. Here in this room, you will see some of the most spectacular examples from several localities. Please check back as we will add new specimens as they become available.