mineral

Amazonite

Microcline (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Blue-green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions intersecting at nearly 90 degrees; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Blue-green to turquoise blue, often with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Its distinct blue-green color is caused by trace amounts of lead and water trapped within the potassium feldspar lattice.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for lapidary carvings, cabochons, beads, and as decorative mineral specimens for collectors.

Geological facts

Amazonite is named after the Amazon River, where green stones were historically reported, although true amazonite deposits are not actually found in that specific river basin. Major sources include Brazil, Colorado (USA), Russia, Madagascar, and Mozambique.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its distinct blue-green turquoise color paired with white albite/feldspar streaking and perfect feldspar cleavage planes. Easily distinguished from turquoise and chrysocolla by its vitreous luster and hardness.