Amazonite
Microcline Feldspar
What is Amazonite?
Amazonite is a tectosilicate mineral, a variety of microcline feldspar. It is typically a blue-green to greenish-blue color, and is prized as a gemstone. The color is due to small amounts of lead within the feldspar. Amazonite is often found in association with smoky quartz, albite, and other feldspars.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.522 - 1.530
- Birefringence
- 0.012
- Pleochroism
- Weak
- Optical Character
- biaxial (-)
- Dispersion
- 0.012
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Amazonite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Where to Find Amazonite
RockHoundR, the free-to-download rockhounding map from the Ruby Glint team, shows where collectors find amazonite in the US, with land-access notes for BLM land and national forests. Collecting is banned in national parks.
See where to find amazoniteAlways check the local rules and get the landowner's permission before you collect.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue-green, greenish-blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6 - 6.5
- Rock tumbling
- With care
- Density
- 2.56 - 2.58 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (K,Na)AlSi3O8
- Elements
- Aluminum, Silicon, Oxygen, Potassium
Also Known As
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Amazonite FAQs
How do I identify Amazonite?
Amazonite can be identified by its hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Blue-green color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Amazonite?
Amazonite typically appears in Blue-green, greenish-blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Amazonite?
Amazonite has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.