More than you ever wanted to know about Amazonite

This edition of my continuing series of blog posts about gem and mineral fact, fiction and lore features amazonite.

Amazonite is the gem name for light bluish green microcline (orthoclase). Orthoclase, a sodium feldspar (sometimes called potash feldspar), gets its name from two Greek words: ‘orthos’, meaning upright; and ‘klasas’, meaning fracture. This is an allusion to its two right angle cleavages.

While amazonite is found in a number of locations, some in the United States, truly good material is rare; the finest comes from Russia.

People living in pre-Columbian South and Central America wore amazonite jewelry.

Lore

“Amazonite gets its name because of its distinctive blue-green color, which is supposed to echo the rich green hues of the Amazon River and surrounding rainforest. However, deposits of this green feldspar are unknown in the Amazon region . . . “ 1

The ancient Egyptians treasured amazonite. “The seventh chapter of the Egyptian Book of the Dead was engraved on amazonite, and an amazonite scarab ring was among Tutankhamen’s treasures.” 2 Moses’ is said to have had an amazonite on his breast plate.

Amazonite should be a good stone for a person acting as a moderator as it is supposed to empower a one to understand both sides of an argument. “. . . Both men and women sometimes need the inner strength of their “warrior spirit” to not be bullied by controlling people or for the courage to step out into new areas of life. A small piece of this stone, carried in the pocket or hung on a chain, can impart inner resolve and strength every time it is touched.” 3

It is particularly useful for illnesses caused by oversensitivity to environmental influences and electromagnetic smog. 4

1) Jennie Harding “Crystals“ pg. 128

2) Naisha Ahsian “The Book of Stones- Who They Are & What They Teach” pg. 22

3) D. J. Conway “Crystal Enchantments- A Complete Guide to Stones and Their Magical Properties“ pg 34

4) Judy Hall “The Encyclopedia of Crystals“ pg. 130