mineral

Amazonite

Potassium Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: turquoise-green to pale green with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: turquoise-green to pale green with white streaks
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: turquoise-green to pale green with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, specifically plutonic rocks like granite and pegmatites. It crystallizes from magma enriched with lead and water which gives it its distinct color.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and by mineral collectors for its aesthetic blue-green hue.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Amazon Stone,' its color was long thought to be due to copper, but recent research suggests it is caused by small amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 'schiller' effect (a play of internal light) and characteristic white streaks (perthitic texture). Common locations include Russia, Madagascar, Brazil, and Colorado (USA).