mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8 with traces of Lead)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Blue-green, turquoise, or teal with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Blue-green, turquoise, or teal with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Blue-green, turquoise, or teal with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks, granite, and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich magma. The blue-green color is typically attributed to the presence of lead and water within the crystal lattice.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, beads, cabochons, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, although it is not actually found there. It was likely confused with other green stones from that region in historical accounts. High-quality specimens often exhibit a 'shiller' or aventurescence effect.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct turquoise-green color and grid-like white patterns (perthitic texture). Common locations include Brazil, Russia (Ilmen Mountains), Madagascar, and the USA (Pikes Peak, Colorado).