mineral

Amazonite

Triklinic Potassium Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

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

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Turquoise-green to blue-green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks, primarily granitic pegmatites. The green color results from small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure. Found in ancient geological formations often associated with quartz and black tourmaline.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Amazonite is named after the Amazon River, although it is not actually found there; it was likely confused with other green stones from the region. It is the green variety of Microcline feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct sea-foam green color and 'perthitic' texture (white streaks within the green). Common locations include the Pikes Peak area in Colorado (USA), Brazil, Russia (Ilmen Mountains), and Madagascar.