Azurite, Malachite

This small cabinet specimen from the long-closed Empress of India Mine is notable for the many well-formed azurite crystals that adorn its surface and fill numerous vugs. Complementing the azurite are patches of malachite, adding a nice mix of colour to the specimen.

Pieces from this locality are exceedingly rare due to the mine's challenging access and recent collapse of the main portal, which makes significant collecting efforts nearly impossible. This site, located approximately 3 miles southwest of Whitehorse on the north bank of McIntyre Creek, is one of the few Canadian localities to yield fine azurite crystals. Secondary mineral formations like azurite are uncommon in Canada, as glaciation during the last ice age erased most surface deposits. This is a striking piece from a seldom-seen locality, making it a valuable addition to any collection.