mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Turquoise-green, blue-green with white mottling. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Turquoise-green, blue-green with white mottling
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Turquoise-green, blue-green with white mottling. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in granitic pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and schists through the cooling of mineral-rich magma or metamorphic fluid interactions. The color is caused by trace amounts of lead.

Uses & applications

Mainly used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there. It was likely confused with other green stones from that region in historical accounts. High-quality specimens often feature a 'schiller' or pearly sheen.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct blue-green color and grid-like white streaks (perthitic structure). Commonly found in the Ilmensky Mountains (Russia), Colorado (USA), Madagascar, and Brazil.