mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8) with Pb impurities

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale. Color: Green, blue-green, or turquoise. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect at nearly 90 degrees. Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Green, blue-green, or turquoise
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 2, 2026More mineral →

Explore Amazonite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale. Color: Green, blue-green, or turquoise. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect at nearly 90 degrees. Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Formation & geological history

Amazonite is a variety of potassium feldspar that forms primarily in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks under slow-cooling conditions. Its color results from trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone for jewelry, cabochons, and decorative carvings. It is also highly prized by mineral collectors for its vibrant color.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there; it was historically confused with other green stones from that region. It is a tectosilicate mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive blue-green color and grid-like perthitic texture (white streaks). Commonly found in the Ilmen Mountains (Russia), Colorado (USA), Madagascar, and Brazil. Collectors should look for saturated color and minimal fractures.