mineral

Amazonite

Potassium Aluminum Silicate (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise-green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Greenish-blue to turquoise-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 2.56-2.58

Formation & geological history

Formed in plutonic rocks such as pegmatites and granites through hydrothermal activity. Its color is attributed to small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure. Examples range from Proterozoic to more recent geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also popular among mineral collectors for its unique color and association with smoky quartz.

Geological facts

Named after the Amazon River, though it is not actually found there. It is a variety of Microcline feldspar. In ancient Egypt, it was used to create jewelry and beads, and a portion of the Book of the Dead was reportedly engraved on amazonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct green-blue color and pearly luster on cleavage planes. Common locations include Pike's Peak, Colorado (USA), Minas Gerais (Brazil), and parts of Russia and Madagascar. Collectors should look for intense color and white albite streaks.