mineral
Amazonite
Microcline (KAlSi3O8) with lead impurities
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise-green, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 6-6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise-green, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in pegmatites through the slow cooling of magma. The characteristic color is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar crystal lattice.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry as cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also popular as decorative ornamental stones and collector specimens.
Geological facts
Named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. It is known as the 'Stone of Hope' and is often found with smoky quartz or schorl.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its bright blue-green color and typical white streaks or grid-like patterns (exsolution lamellae). Commonly found in Russia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Colorado, USA.
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