Amazonite

Related: Feldspar Varieties

LabradoriteMoonstoneRainbow MoonstoneSunstone

Key Differentiators

• Whitish cross-hatch twinning (perthitic grid) visible under magnification — diagnostic
• Low RI (1.514–1.530) separates from turquoise (RI 1.61–1.65) and jade
• Feldspar SG (~2.56) — lower than turquoise (~2.60–2.85)

Common Simulants

• Turquoise: Turquoise: RI 1.61–1.65; SG 2.60–2.85. Much higher RI and SG than amazonite. Matrix pattern differs; no cross-hatch twinning.
• Chrysoprase (chalcedony): Chrysoprase: RI ~1.535; SG ~2.58–2.61; microcrystalline aggregate; no twinning pattern. Usually more translucent than amazonite.
• Jadeite: Jadeite: RI 1.660–1.680; SG 3.24–3.43. Much higher RI and SG. Interlocking granular texture, not perthitic twinning.

Commonly Confused With

Commonly confused with: Turquoise, Jadeite, Nephrite.

Treatments

• Waxing / impregnation — surface stabilization

Price Context

Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.

About Amazonite

Blue-green microcline feldspar colored by lead and water; frequently sold as a turquoise alternative. Under magnification, whitish cross-hatch or grid twinning (perthitic albite intergrowth) is visible in most specimens and is a key field indicator. Distinguished from turquoise by lower RI and SG; from chrysoprase by higher RI; from jade by lower RI/SG and cleavage.