mineral

Amazonite

K(AlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Blue-green, turquoise, or green with white streaks. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal system: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

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

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs. Color: Blue-green, turquoise, or green with white streaks. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal system: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks like granite and pegmatites through the slow cooling of magma, often containing trace amounts of lead and water that create its distinct color.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and tumbles. It is also a popular collector’s specimen.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, although no deposits have actually been found there. It was used in Ancient Egypt for jewelry and funerary amulets, including items found in King Tutankhamun's tomb.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'schiller' or grid-like white pattern against a turquoise background. Common locations include Brazil, Russia, India, and the United States (notably Pikes Peak, Colorado).