mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (K(AlSi3O8))

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green to bluish-green, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Hardness: 6-6
Color: green to bluish-green, often with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous

Identified April 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green to bluish-green, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, specifically granitic pegmatites and syenites where hydrothermal activity is present. It is a variety of potassium feldspar (microcline).

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads) and as a lapidary material for carvings and decorative items. It is highly valued as a collector specimen.

Geological facts

Amazonite is named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. Its green color was long thought to be due to copper, but recent research suggests it is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive blue-green color and 'Schiller' effect (a slight pearly sheen or white streaking). Commonly found in the Ilmen Mountains (Russia), Colorado (USA), Madagascar, and Brazil.