
mineral
Amazonite
K(AlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Turquoise green to bluish green, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
- Hardness
- 6-6
Identified More mineral →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Turquoise green to bluish green, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions, Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
Formation & geological history
Forms in late-stage granitic pegmatites. It is a variety of microcline feldspar colored by traces of lead or iron. Found in ancient metamorphic and igneous terrains.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Named after the Amazon River, although ironically it is not actually found there. It is one of the few green gemstones that belongs to the feldspar family.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive turquoise-green color with white streaks (schiller effect). Commonly found in Russia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and the United States (notably Pikes Peak, Colorado). Collectors look for deep color saturation and chatoyancy.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral
Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
mineral