mineral

Amazonite

Microcline Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright blue-green, pale green, or turquoise-green. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal System: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions intersecting at nearly 90 degrees.

Hardness: 6 to 6
Color: Bright blue-green, pale green, or turquoise-green
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, primarily inside pegmatites and granitic rocks, as well as in some low-grade metamorphic rocks. The bluish-green color is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Uses & applications

Widely used as an ornamental stone, lapidary material for cabochons, beads, carvings, and popular in tumbled stone collections and crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though no deposits are actually known to exist in that specific region. Historically, it was mined by ancient Egyptians for jewelry and amulets.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive grid-like or perthitic white striations within the vibrant turquoise-to-green color. Major localities include Colorado and Virginia (USA), Madagascar, Brazil, and Russia.