Amazonite is the blue-green variety of microcline, a potassium feldspar (KAlSi3O8) that crystallizes in the triclinic system with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5. Its distinctive color — a soft teal that sits somewhere between turquoise and jade — is attributed to trace amounts of lead together with water bound in the crystal lattice, a combination confirmed by spectroscopic studies of the mineral. The stone is named after the Amazon River, though no confirmed deposits have ever been documented there; the name stuck from early trade routes long before modern mineralogy could verify sources.

A polished amazonite tower — note the white albite streaking, the hallmark of natural material — shop this piece

Every amazonite specimen in this collection is hand-selected and individually photographed, so the piece you see is the piece you receive. Our sourcing spans the classic localities: Brazil and Madagascar for polished forms, freeforms, and towers, plus collector-grade crystals from granite pegmatites. Browse related forms in our crystal towers and clusters collections. Free shipping on all U.S. orders over $150.

About Amazonite

Amazonite forms in granitic pegmatites — coarse-grained igneous rocks where slow cooling allows large, well-formed crystals to develop. The most celebrated locality is the Pikes Peak batholith of Colorado, where blue-green amazonite crystals grow intergrown with smoky quartz, producing some of the most recognizable specimen combinations in American mineralogy. Significant material also comes from Brazil, Madagascar, and the Ilmen Mountains of Russia, where the variety was first formally described in the 18th century.

A genuine amazonite hallmark worth knowing: most specimens show fine white streaks or a subtle grid-like shimmer running through the color. These are exsolution lamellae of albite (a sodium feldspar) — thin layers that separated from the potassium feldspar as it cooled. Far from being a flaw, this perthitic texture is one of the fastest ways to confirm you are looking at natural amazonite rather than dyed imitation material.

How to Choose Amazonite

Color saturation drives value: deeper, more even teal commands a premium over pale or heavily mottled material. Polished freeforms and palm stones showcase the color and silky luster best, while raw pegmatite specimens preserve the crystal faces and natural albite streaking that collectors prize. As a feldspar, amazonite has two cleavage directions meeting at nearly 90 degrees, so protect pieces from hard knocks and store them separately from harder minerals like quartz. Clean with a soft, dry cloth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes amazonite's blue-green color?

Research attributes the color to trace amounts of lead combined with water bound within the microcline crystal lattice. The intensity varies with the concentration of these trace elements, which is why amazonite ranges from pale seafoam to deep teal depending on the deposit.

How can I tell if amazonite is real?

Natural amazonite almost always shows fine white albite streaks or a subtle grid-like pattern within the color — a texture called perthite that forms as the feldspar cools. Dyed imitations (often howlite or magnesite) show uniform color with no internal structure, and the dye tends to concentrate in surface cracks.

Where is amazonite found?

The most famous locality is the Pikes Peak region of Colorado, where amazonite grows alongside smoky quartz in granite pegmatites. Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia's Ilmen Mountains are the other major sources. Despite the name, no verified deposits exist along the Amazon River.

Is amazonite safe to handle, given the lead content?

Yes. The trace lead is locked within the crystal structure and does not transfer through normal handling. As with any mineral, it is not intended for ingestion or for making drinking vessels, but display and everyday handling are completely safe.

How should I care for amazonite?

Amazonite sits at Mohs 6 to 6.5 and has two strong cleavage directions, so avoid drops and hard impacts. Store it separately from quartz and other harder stones to prevent scratches, keep it out of prolonged direct sunlight, and clean with a soft dry cloth.