Gem Guide Amazonite

Overview of Amazonite

Also called: Amazon Stone

About

Amazonite is a green to blue-green variety of microcline feldspar, named after the Amazon River, though it is not found there. Its colour, ranging from pale green to deep turquoise, is due to trace amounts of lead and water within its crystal structure. It has been used in jewellery and carvings for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations, such as the Egyptians, cherishing it for both its beauty and supposed protective qualities.

Amazonite Crystal Healing Uses

Amazonite History and Folklore

Birthstones & Anniversaries

Amazonite is not a traditional birthstone, but it is often associated with the zodiac signs of Virgo and Aquarius due to its connection to communication, balance, and harmony.

Facts

Ancient uses: Amazonite was used by the Egyptians, with beads and amulets found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Mythical origins: Although named after the Amazon River, there are no known deposits of amazonite in the region.

Microcline variety: Amazonite is a member of the feldspar group, specifically a type of potassium feldspar.

Colour variation: Its green-blue colour can vary depending on the amount of lead present in the stone.

Science

Mineral: Microcline Feldspar
Crystal System: Triclinic
Chemistry: KAlSi₃O₈
Colour: Green to blue-green
Refractive Index: 1.522 to 1.530
Birefringence: 0.008
Specific Gravity: 2.56 to 2.58
Mohs Hardness: 6 to 6.5

Similar Materials

Turquoise: While turquoise has a similar blue-green hue, it is chemically distinct and usually displays a more opaque and porous appearance.

Chrysocolla: Often confused with amazonite due to its blue-green colour, but chrysocolla is a copper-based mineral and tends to be softer.

Treatments

Amazonite is typically untreated, with its beautiful green-blue hues occurring naturally. However, some lower-quality stones may be resin impregnated to improve their colour.