AMAZONITE 

Specifications

Mineral Class: Microcline
Crystal System: Triclinic
Hardness: 6 - 6.5
Luster: Vitreous
Diaphaneity: Translucent, opaque
Colors: Turquoise, Green, Blue-Green, White
Symbolizes: Ambition
​Source: Austria, Brazil, Canada, India, Mozambique, Namibia, Russia,​ and USA 

Amazonite, also known as Amazonstone, is a variety of the potassium feldspar called microcline. Its bright, saturated, turquoise colors reminiscent of the Amazon Rainforest give the name to this stone.

The discovery of the colors in Amazonite are very intriguing and for a while, was a mystery. The colors were often thought to be from copper because copper compounds frequently have blue and green colors. However, a 1985 study suggests that the blue-green color results from quantities of lead and water in the feldspar. Additionally, a recent 2010 study also insinuates the role of iron in the green coloration. These studies and associated hypotheses indicate the complex nature of the color in Amazonite. In ancient times, Amazonite was used to decorate the halls of the beloved dead. A famous example comes from King Tutankhamen’s golden face mask, which was covered in Amazonite as well as lapis and Carnelian. Today we know Amazonite as the Hope Stone. From its bright bold hues, to its soothing touch, Amazonite can be a great new addition to any crystal collection.