mineral

Amazonite

KAlSi3O8 (Potassium Feldspar / Microcline)

Hardness: 6 - 6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Blue-green to turquoise blue; 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: Blue-green to turquoise blue
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. The signature blue-green color results from trace amounts of lead and water trapped within the feldspar crystal structure.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, carved into figurines, lapidary cabochons, beads, polished display specimens, and in gemstone jewelry.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, although no actual deposits have been found there. Historically, it was used by ancient Egyptians for jewelry and amulets.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive blue-green color combined with typical feldspar blocky cleavage and pearly-to-vitreous luster. Commonly found in Colorado and Virginia (USA), Madagascar, Brazil, and Russia.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock