mineral
Amazonite
Potassium Feldspar (Microcline) - K(AlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green to blue-green; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect 2 directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- green to blue-green
- Luster
- vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green to blue-green; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect 2 directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58
Formation & geological history
Formed in plutonic rocks, primarily granite and pegmatites, through the cooling of magma. Its distinctive color is attributed to small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also popular among mineral collectors for its vibrant color.
Geological facts
Amazonite is named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. It is the official gemstone of Colorado, where it often forms in spectacular clusters with smoky quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive sea-foam green or turquoise color and the presence of white streaks or 'perthitic' texture. Frequently found in regions like Russia’s Ural Mountains and Pikes Peak, Colorado.
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Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock