igneous

Amazonite

Amazonite / Microcline (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Mint green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Mint green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified January 25, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in deep-seated igneous environments, primarily pegmatites and granites, through the cooling of silica-rich magma. The green color is attributed to the presence of lead and water within the feldspar structure during its formation (frequently dating back to the Proterozoic era).

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone for jewelry, beads, and cabochons. It is also a popular collector's mineral and is occasionally used in craft carvings and ornamental decor.

Geological facts

Despite its name, Amazonite is not actually found in the Amazon River; it was named as such because early explorers confused it with other green minerals from that region. It is the official state gemstone of Colorado (USA), specifically the Pikes Peak area.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct sea-green color, grid-like white streaks (perthitic texture), and blocky cleavage faces. Common locations include the Ilmen Mountains (Russia), Colorado and Virginia (USA), Madagascar, and Brazil.

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous