Amazonite

Amazonite, also called Amazon stone, is a light to dark green variety of microcline mineral from the mineral class of silicates, more specifically, a framework silicate from the group of the feldspars. It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system and its chemical formula corresponds to that of Microcline (K [ AlSi3O8 ] ) with small admixtures of lead, which is responsible for the color.

Amazonite is used exclusively in precious stones. An exception is occurring in Chittor in India amazonite granite called " monsoon ", which finds application in exclusive interior design.

Etymology and history

Already in ancient Egypt amazonite was made into jewelery. Later, scientists deduced the name of the Amazon River, where it has not previously been found.

Alexander von Humboldt (1769-1859) reported on the contrary, of an Indian tribe, who lived along the Rio Negro and wore amulets made ​​of amazonite. These were supposed to come from a country where the women without men lived ( Amazons ).

Varieties

Because microcline, together with orthoclase, sanidine and albite end member as a mixed batch, one is now gone over to prove all blue to green, lead-containing varieties of the minerals concerned with the addition of amazonite. Amazonite must therefore accordingly as a collective term for the varieties of microcline - Amazonite, orthoclase amazonite, albite - amazonite and the different plagioclase Amazonite be considered.

Education and Locations

Amazonite forms magmatic in granite, syenite and pegmatite.

Sites are, for example, in Crystal Peak, Colorado in the USA, Brazil, India, Madagascar and Norway.

Use as a gemstone

Amazonite jewelry usually receives for the so-called panel cut or cabochon cut, but is also processed in spherical form to necklaces as well as arts and crafts objects (eg sculptures). However, due to its good structural Cleavage he is very sensitive to pressure and can be bordering difficult.