Amazonite
Microcline var. Amazonite · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Triclinic, typically occurs as massive or blocky crystals, rarely as well-formed prismatic crystals.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates, Feldspar group)
Chemical Formula
KAlSi3O8
Formation Process
Igneous and hydrothermal processes, specifically crystallizing slowly from cooling magma in pegmatites at high temperatures and pressures, with trace lead and water giving it the green color.
About This Crystal
A polished, rectangular tumbled stone exhibiting a vibrant mint-green to turquoise-blue color with characteristic white schiller or streaks (albite intergrowths) and brownish-red inclusions of iron or quartz. It has a vitreous to slightly waxy luster and is opaque to translucent.
Physical Characteristics
Color is bright green, blue-green, or turquoise with white mottling and reddish-brown veins; streak is white; perfect cleavage in two directions at near right angles; uneven to conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is approximately 2.56-2.58; tenacity is brittle; non-magnetic.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative optical character; refractive index ranges from 1.522 to 1.530; birefringence is low (0.007 to 0.008); usually shows no notable pleochroism; can sometimes exhibit a subtle silvery-white sheen or schiller effect.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Russia (Ilmen Mountains), United States (Colorado), Madagascar, Brazil, and Namibia. Forms mainly in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5; moderate toughness but possesses good cleavage making it vulnerable to hard impacts; suitable for most jewelry use with protective settings.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemical solvents; store separately from harder gems to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon; high-grade intense blue-green material from prime localities (like Russia or Colorado) can command higher prices, but generally affordable; rarely treated.
Special Characteristics
Often displays a characteristic grid-like twinning pattern (tartan twinning) under microscopic examination and striking white streaks or intersecting Albite lamellae (grid/perthitic texture).
Lore & History
Historically associated with the ancient Egyptians, who used it in jewelry and the Book of the Dead. In modern crystal healing, it is known as the 'stone of courage and truth,' associated with the heart and throat chakras, believed to soothe anxiety and filter electromagnetic stress.