mineral
Amazonite
Microcline Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Blue-green, turquoise, light green. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect at nearly 90 degrees. Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Blue-green, turquoise, light green
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Blue-green, turquoise, light green. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect at nearly 90 degrees. Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous environments, primarily inside granitic pegmatites and vein deposits, often associated with smoky quartz, albite, and orthoclase.
Uses & applications
Used mostly as a gemstone, for lapidary carving, cabochons, beads, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
The blue-green color of amazonite was long thought to be caused by copper, but modern research shows it is actually due to trace amounts of lead and water trapped in the feldspar lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive light blue-green or turquoise color combined with two prominent cleavage planes at roughly right angles and vitreous luster. Found in Russia, Brazil, Madagascar, and Colorado (USA).
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