mineral

Amazonite

K(AlSi3O8) (Microcline Feldspar)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: bright blue-green to turquoise; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: triclinic; Cleavage: perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: bright blue-green to turquoise
Luster: vitreous to pearly

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: bright blue-green to turquoise; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: triclinic; Cleavage: perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, specifically within granitic pegmatites. The green color arises from trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, cabochons, and ornamental carvings. It is also a popular specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there. It was historically called 'Amazon Stone'. The color was once thought to be caused by copper, but modern analysis confirmed lead impurities.

Field identification & locations

Look for the characteristic 'schiller' or white streaking within the blue-green matrix. Common locations include the Pikes Peak area of Colorado, USA, as well as Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar.