Azurite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca,
Santa Cruz Municipality, Sonora, Mexico
22 cm tall x 11 cm wide
This is a striking azurite specimen featuring the deepest vibrant blue color with shimmering sharp crystals reflecting light from every face. The blue azurite mountain is contrasted by a white matrix grounding the composition, highlighting and enhancing the intense blue hues. The interplay between the bold blue crystals and the subdued white base creates an eye-catching and dynamic visual experience.
There was a time when collectors would compare and contrast which azurite locality was best – Tsumeb? Bisbee? Morocco? That is no longer up for debate. Azurites from all other known localities have been surpassed by specimens from the Milpillas Mine. On average, Milpillas’ azurites are bluer, more lustrous, more vivid, more everything.
This example was unearthed in 2011 during an early phase of mining and was transferred directly from the miners to a collector, never entering the market. Notably, its color, luster, and contrasting white matrix distinguish it as the most exceptional example; it represents one of the finest Azurite specimens recovered to date from any locality worldwide.