mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: pale green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: pale green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: pale green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic igneous rocks (granite and pegmatites) through hydrothermal activity and slow cooling of magma. Some deposits originate from the Precambrian to Paleozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads) and as an ornamental stone. It is a popular specimen for mineral collectors due to its unique color.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Amazon Stone,' though it is not actually found in the Amazon River. Its color was long thought to be due to copper, but scientists now believe it comes from trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive sea-green to bluish color and the presence of white streaks or 'schiller' effect. Common locations include the Ilmensky Mountains in Russia, Pikes Peak in Colorado (USA), and Madagascar.