mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8) with trace lead

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Appearance often features white streaks or a schiller effect called perthitic texture.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amazonite is a variety of potassium feldspar (microcline) that forms primarily in pegmatites, which are igneous rocks with large crystals. The blue-green color is caused by small traces of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, including beads, cabochons, and carvings. It is also a very 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 is the official gemstone of Virginia, USA. Its color was long debated but is now understood to be the result of lead and water impurities acting on the feldspar lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct grid-like twinning (perthitic texture) and vivid blue-green color compared to other feldspars. Commonly found in Colorado (Pikes Peak), Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar.