mineral

Amazonite

Amazonite (KAlSi3O8, a triclinic variety of Potassium Feldspar)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Green to bluish-green
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites through hydrothermal activity. While named after the Amazon River, it is not actually found there. Specimens can range from hundreds of millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads) and as a lapidary material for carvings and decorative items. It is also a popular specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Its unique color was long thought to be caused by copper, but recent research suggests it is due to trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure. It is often found associated with smoky quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct blue-green 'tiffany' color and prominent white streaks or 'veins' (perthite). Commonly found in Russia (Urals), USA (Colorado and Virginia), Madagascar, and Brazil. In the field, look for crystalline blocks in granitic pegmatite veins.

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