mineral
Amazonite
Microcline (KAlSi3O8) with trace lead (Pb)
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: turquoise, blue-green, or mint green with white streaks; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- turquoise, blue-green, or mint green with white streaks
- Luster
- vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: turquoise, blue-green, or mint green with white streaks; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites and granites, as well as some metamorphic schists. Its characteristic color is caused by the presence of trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and a popular specimen for mineral collectors due to its vibrant color.
Geological facts
Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there; it was likely confused with other green stones found in the region. The finest specimens are often associated with smoky quartz crystals.
Field identification & locations
Look for the distinct 'schiller' or pearly sheen and white grid-like streaks (perthitic texture). Common locations include the Pikes Peak area of Colorado (USA), Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar.
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sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
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Mineral/Rock