Amazonite

Amazonite is the green variety of microcline (a form of alkali feldspar). It is the semi-opaque or blue-green type. Amazonite is named after the Amazon River and is most commonly used in jewelry. The stone may be cut en cabochon, up to almost any size. Its beautiful color is due to the presence of lead.

Although amazonite has the same composition as orthoclase, its crystal structure is triclinic. The stone may be confused with jade or turquoise. An amazonite rough may occur as a blue, massive crystal in nature.

Occurrence

The most important source of amazonite is India. Other localities include Canada, the USA, Namibia, Tanzania, Madagascar, and the former USSR.

Amazonite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 2.56
• Refractive Index: 1.52-1.53
• Birefringence (DR): 0.008
• Luster: Vitreous to silky
• Crystal Structure: Triclinic
• Composition: Potassium aluminum silicate
• Hardness: 6

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