
mineral
Amazonite
Microcline (KAlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Turquoise-green to blue-green with white mottling; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect at two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Turquoise-green to blue-green with white mottling
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Turquoise-green to blue-green with white mottling; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect at two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
Formation & geological history
Formed in plutonic rocks like granite and pegmatites through the cooling of magma. Its distinctive color is caused by the presence of small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Known as the "Amazon Stone," it was named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. It is the official gemstone of Virginia, USA.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its unique blue-green color and the presence of white streaks or 'schiller' effect (perthitic texture). Common locations include Russia, Colorado (Pikes Peak), Brazil, and Madagascar.
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
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Metamorphic Rock
Biotite Schist
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Green Apatite on Albite
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mineral