Rock Identifier
Amazonite (Potassium Aluminum Silicate (K[AlSi3O8])) — mineral
mineral

Amazonite

Potassium Aluminum Silicate (K[AlSi3O8])

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: teal/blue-green/light green with white streaks, Luster: vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: perfect in two directions at nearly 90 degrees, Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Hardness
6-6
Identified More mineral
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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: teal/blue-green/light green with white streaks, Luster: vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: perfect in two directions at nearly 90 degrees, Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Formation & geological history

Formed in deep-seated igneous rocks known as pegmatites, often alongside quartz and mica. Its color is attributed to the presence of small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone for jewelry, cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also highly popular as a metaphysical healing stone and collector specimen.

Geological facts

Amazonite is a variety of Microcline feldspar. Despite its name, it is not found in the Amazon River itself, but is found in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil. It has been used since at least the time of Ancient Egypt.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive blue-green color and 'Schiller' effect (a slight white shimmering or streaky texture). Found commonly in Russia, Brazil, Madagascar, and Colorado (Pikes Peak region) in the USA.