mineral

Amazonite

Amazonite (Microcline Feldspar) K(AlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Blue-green to turquoise; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Blue-green to turquoise
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks, primarily granitic pegmatites. The green color is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure. Found in ancient metamorphic and igneous terrains.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a gemstone for jewelry, beads, and cabochons. It is also a popular collector's specimen and is sometimes used in ornamental carvings.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there; the name likely comes from confusion with other green stones. It was used in Ancient Egypt for jewelry andamulets, including being found in King Tutankhamun's tomb.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 'schiller' or pearly sheen and cross-hatched twinning (Perthitic texture) visible on cleavage surfaces. Commonly found in Colorado (USA), Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic