
mineral
Amazonite
Microcline (KAlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to turqouise-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Pale green to turqouise-blue
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Pale green to turqouise-blue; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to pearly; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous rocks, specifically granites and pegmatites, through the cooling of silica-rich magma; its color is attributed to the presence of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as a gemstone for jewelry, beads, and cabochons; also popular as a decorative carving material and collector specimen.
Geological facts
Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there; it was historically confused with other green stones found in the region. It is often called the 'Hope Stone'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct bluish-green color and 'chiller' effect (white streaking or mottled appearance). Commonly found in Russia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and the United States (Colorado).
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock