Amazonite
Microcline var. Amazonite · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Triclinic; typically found in massive, granular, or prismatic habits. This specimen is a polished heart shape.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate); Feldspar Group
Chemical Formula
K(AlSi3O8). The blue-green color is caused by trace amounts of lead (Pb) and water.
Formation Process
Igneous/Pegmatitic; forms through the slow cooling of magma in pegmatites, often alongside smoky quartz and schorl tourmaline.
About This Crystal
A polished heart-shaped specimen displaying a vibrant turquoise or blue-green body color. The surface exhibits characteristic white streaks or schiller, appearing opaque with a vitreous to pearly luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Blue-green with white perthitic mottling; Streak: White; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Density: 2.56-2.58; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Weak olive-green under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.522–1.530; Birefringence: 0.008; Optically Biaxial (-); Phenomenon: Schorlaceous or perthitic texture (white exsolution lamellae of albite).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Russia (Ilmen Mountains), Brazil, USA (Colorado/Virginia), and Ethiopia. Often found in granitic pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 6 to 6.5; Toughness: Poor due to perfect cleavage; Stability: Sensitive to heat and pressure, relatively stable in light.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Store separately from harder stones like quartz to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon; value is determined by color intensity (deep green-blue is preferred) and the distinctness of the white patterns. Usually affordable.
Special Characteristics
Displays perthitic texture, consisting of intergrowths of two different feldspars (microcline and albite), which creates the signature white streaks.
Lore & History
Named after the Amazon River (despite not being found there). Historically used in Ancient Egypt for jewelry and amulets. Traditionally associated with the Throat and Heart Chakras; believed to aid in communication and emotional balance.