Rock Identifier
Tumbled amazonite (likely) (Amazonite, green microcline feldspar (KAlSi₃O₈)) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled amazonite (likely)

Amazonite, green microcline feldspar (KAlSi₃O₈)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The foreground stone is an opaque, pale blue-green polished pebble with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; microcline has Mohs hardness 6–6.5, two cleavages, and a triclinic crystal structure. The background includes other tumbled stones, possibly amethyst, rose quartz, and agate, but they are not identifiable confidently from…

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Physical properties

The foreground stone is an opaque, pale blue-green polished pebble with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; microcline has Mohs hardness 6–6.5, two cleavages, and a triclinic crystal structure. The background includes other tumbled stones, possibly amethyst, rose quartz, and agate, but they are not identifiable confidently from this image.

Formation & geological history

Amazonite forms in potassium-rich granite pegmatites through late-stage crystallization, generally in Precambrian to younger igneous terrains. Notable deposits occur in Colorado, Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and Ethiopia.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary carvings, beads, cabochons, ornaments, and mineral collecting; it has little industrial value compared with ordinary feldspar.

Geological facts

Its blue-green color commonly results from trace lead and water-related defects in the feldspar structure, not copper as sometimes claimed.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its pastel blue-green color, feldspar-like cleavage, moderate hardness, and frequent white grid-like perthitic patterns; polished pieces may conceal cleavage. Common commercial tumbled specimens are inexpensive.