mineral

Amazonite

Potassium Feldspar (Microcline), K(AlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to blue-green (due to lead traces); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Green to blue-green (due to lead traces)
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks, primarily granitic pegmatites. The green color is a result of structural defects involving lead and water during crystallization over millions of years, often in the Proterozoic or Paleozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons and beads) and as a lapidary material for decorative carvings and ornamental objects. Highly prized as a mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Historically called 'Amazon Stone,' though it is not found in the Amazon River. It was used in Ancient Egypt for amulets and carvings, including items found in King Tutankhamun's tomb.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive blue-green 'seafoam' color and the 'schiller effect' (pearly white streaks). Common locations include Pikes Peak, Colorado; Brazil; Russia; and Madagascar.

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

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Green Apatite on Albite

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