Where is Amazonite found?
Amazonite (variety of Microcline Feldspar)
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Open the appAmazonite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Amazonite
Pikes Peak, Colorado, USA
Famous for producing some of the finest deep blue-green amazonite crystals, often associated with smoky quartz and albite.
Miass, Ilmen Mountains, Russia
Historically significant locality, known for large amazonite crystals.
Minas Gerais, Brazil
A major source of amazonite, often found in pegmatites.
Madagascar
Produces good quality amazonite, sometimes with interesting patterns.
Virginia, USA
Localities such as Amelia Courthouse are known for amazonite occurrences.
Ethiopia
Newer sources have emerged, providing material for the gem market.
Collecting tips
- Target Pegmatites. Focus your search on granitic pegmatite dikes and sills, especially those known for rare earth elements or other unusual minerals, as amazonite often co-occurs with them.
- Look for Associated Minerals. Amazonite is frequently found with smoky quartz, albite, cleavelandite, and sometimes other rare minerals like topaz or beryl. Identifying these associated minerals can lead to amazonite.
- Examine Outcrops. Look for distinctive blue-green masses or crystals within exposed pegmatite bodies. Weathering can sometimes make the color more apparent.
- Check Mine Dumps. Old mine dumps from pegmatite operations can be excellent places to find specimens that were overlooked or discarded.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Blue-green to green
- Luster:
- Vitreous to pearly
- Streak:
- White
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