Physical Properties
- Hardness: 6.0-6.5
- Luster: Vitreous
- Streak: White
- Diaphaneity: Translucent, opaque
- Specific gravity: 2.56-2.58
Chemical Composition
- Chemical formula: KAlSi
- Polymorphic to orthoclase
- Potassium feldspar called microcline
- Unknown if stones from the Amazon River were amazonite
- No ancient or medieval authority mentions amazonite
Color and Varieties
- Green and greenish-blue varieties are designated as amazonite
- Described as bright verdigris-green and possessing a lively green color
- Occasionally cut and used as a gemstone
- Color may be the aggregate effect of several factors
- Studies suggest the role of lead, rubidium, thallium, and divalent iron in coloration
Occurrence
- Limited occurrence in Bronze Age Egypt and Miass, Russia
- Source of color was a mystery for many years
- Blue-green color may result from lead and water in the feldspar
- Aliovalent lead may play a role in the color of microcline
- Increasing content of lead, rubidium, and thallium associated with color variations
Health Concerns
- Lead leakage from amazonite into an acidic solution exceeded recommended amount
- Experiment simulated a child swallowing amazonite
- Applicable to new wellness practices such as inserting the mineral into oils or drinking water
- Potential health risks associated with high lead content
- Further studies needed to understand the health implications of amazonite
Amazonite Data Sources
| Reference | URL |
|---|---|
| Glossary | https://harryandcojewellery.com.au/blogs/glossary/amazonite |
| Wikipedia | http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amazonite |
| Wikidata | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q429786 |
| Knowledge Graph | https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/0zxf |