THE MINERAL AJOITE

Ajoite is an attractive copper silicate mineral that is named for its type locality in the Ajo District of Pima County, Arizona. It is a secondary mineral that forms from the oxidation of other secondary copper minerals. Ajoite forms excellent microcrystal specimens. The small prismatic crystals are often arranged in tufts with an almost aquamarine-like blue green color. It is associated with other rare and colorful minerals such as shattuckite, copper, papagoite and plancheite; which makes specimens even more attractive. The color variety in a single multi-mineral specimen is sometimes surreal. Massive samples of ajoite are also unique and are sometimes carved or tumbled and can be used as an ornamental stone. Ajoite's classification as a phyllosilicate is questionable as its true structure is as yet unknown.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

 

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