mineral
Blue-green mineral specimen, likely amazonite
Amazonite, a green variety of microcline feldspar (KAlSi₃O₈)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale turquoise-green, opaque, with a glassy to pearly luster and blocky feldspar cleavage; Mohs hardness 6–6.5. The rough, small specimen is consistent with amazonite, though color alone cannot exclude turquoise or chrysocolla.
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Physical properties
Pale turquoise-green, opaque, with a glassy to pearly luster and blocky feldspar cleavage; Mohs hardness 6–6.5. The rough, small specimen is consistent with amazonite, though color alone cannot exclude turquoise or chrysocolla.
Formation & geological history
Amazonite forms in potassium-rich granitic pegmatites through slow cooling and late-stage hydrothermal processes, commonly in Precambrian to younger granitic rocks. Major sources include Colorado, Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and Namibia.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative and lapidary stone in cabochons, beads, carvings, and tumbled pieces; it has little industrial value in small specimens.
Geological facts
Its blue-green color is caused by trace lead and water-related defects in the feldspar structure, not by copper as in turquoise.
Field identification & locations
Identify amazonite by its feldspar cleavage, relatively hard surface, and white grid-like streaking or perthitic pattern; turquoise is typically waxier and softer (Mohs 5–6). A hardness, streak, or mineral-chemistry test is needed for certainty.
