Amazonite Guide: The Green Feldspar for Collectors
Amazonite is a green to blue-green variety of microcline feldspar (KAlSi3O8) prized for its vivid color and interesting crystal habits. Despite its name, amazonite has never been found in the Amazon basin. The mineral was likely named for its resemblance to green stones traded along the river.
What Gives Amazonite Its Color
Research has shown that the blue-green color results from small quantities of lead and water within the feldspar structure. When lead substitutes for potassium in the crystal lattice and interacts with natural radiation, it creates charge-transfer color centers that produce the characteristic blue-green hue. Color intensity varies with lead concentration and radiation exposure.
Where Amazonite is Found
Colorado’s Pikes Peak region produces the finest amazonite, often perched on smoky quartz clusters. Russia’s Ilmensky Mountains produce classic specimens. Madagascar yields large gem-quality crystals. Ethiopia has become an important modern source of affordable crystals. Virginia’s Morefield Mine also produces quality amazonite.
Collecting Amazonite
Amazonite rates 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it reasonably durable. Colorado combination specimens with smoky quartz are most sought-after. Browse our green crystal collection and blue crystal specimens for related minerals.
