mineral
Amazonite
K(AlSi3O8)
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green, blue-green, or turquoise-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- green, blue-green, or turquoise-green
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale); Color: green, blue-green, or turquoise-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58
Formation & geological history
Found primarily in granitic rocks and pegmatites. The green color is caused by the presence of small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Also known as Amazon Stone, it was named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. It is the green variety of microcline feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct blue-green color and white streaks/schiller effect (perthitic texture). Common locations include the Ilmen Mountains in Russia, Colorado and Virginia in the USA, and Madagascar.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
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