subject: Amazonite Gemstone Beads Origin, Properties, Uses And Folklore [print this page] Amazonite gemstone is extracted from a triclinic compound which is categorized under a general category of mineral salts known as feldspar. Belonging to a class of crystals which are composed of Silicon; these silicates constitute mainly of Aluminum and Potassium. Bearing a tenacity of around 6-6.5 on the Mohs Scale, the mineral Microcline is fabricated to produce a particular gemstone known as Amazonite. Though the mineral salt is opaque, white and translucent in its shades; Amazonite maintains either dark green or a light blue color which is induced due to the presence of OH-1 and Lead contaminants.
Geological Origins: Amazonite has substantially been named after the river Amazon however its discovery certainly doesnt lie within those lands. It was recently unearthed from the Illmen Mountains, which is a 50 mile crag laying in the southwestern region of Chelyabinsk in Russia. Apart from this region, the United States is another site where high quality mineral salts are extracted from. It is in Colorado where most deposits occur, chiefly the places being Crystal Peak, Pikes Peak and El Paso. Brazil also happens to be another domicile for the extraction sites for the gemstone. Leaving aside the chief sources which are profound for the gemstone productivity; Zimbabwe, Australia, Namibia etc are the remaining sites for its extraction.
Chemical Properties: The gemstone is a triclinic compound in which oxide composition of Potassium, Aluminum and Silicon are respectively around 16.9%, 18.4% & 64.7%. The gemstone is mined from its original mineral which is feldspar and is polished to produce a cabochon. The stone is specifically recognizable by its light bluish tints, or sometimes it may also be a soft olive-green however the translucent shine which appears from its surface is due to the phenomenon of inclusions within the crystal, an interference of the rays due to the structural deformities of the crystal.
It has a conchoidal geometric arrangement with a specific gravity which ranges about 2.56-2.57. It is regarded as a soft stone which comprises of a refractive index which is calculated to being 1.53. The stone is grounded from its source mineral which is typically found under plutonic rocks or granite composites.
Uses:Amazonite due to its unique colors and also since its extremely rare to find, is regarded as a semi-precious stone which is marketed all over the world for the sake of being a jewel asset. Though its deposits are sporadic, the stone has become widespread in the market for not only being a fine gemstone but also holds an astrological significance in its occurrence. Used in necklaces as a form of a pendent; it makes a profitable ornamental piece which is sold at an expanse in the market.
Folklore:The stone has been distinguished into a December gem; which is meant for the zodiac Virgo. Said to increase an individuals creative and intellectual quotient and boosts self-esteem into the wearer. It is also regarded as a stone of peace; where it soothes unsettled senses and motivates self-confidence in a person. Legends claim the stone to be a descendent of the warrior clans of Egypt. Hence holds a heavy significance.
