mineral

Amazonite

K(AlSi3O8) - Potassium Aluminum Silicate

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Green to bluish-green, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Green to bluish-green, often with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Green to bluish-green, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks, primarily granitic pegmatites. The green color is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar latice.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone, for lapidary work (cabochons, beads), and as a collector specimen. Occasionally used as an ornamental stone.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, although it is not actually found there. It is the green variety of Microcline feldspar. Historically, it was used by ancient Egyptians for jewelry and making the handle of daggers.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive robin-egg blue or green color and 'schiller' or grid-like white patterns (exsolution lamellae). Commonly found in Russia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Colorado, USA.