"Amazon Stone"

Displaying soothing hues ranging from pale green to vibrant turquoise, often with subtle white or pale yellow streaks of albite, Amazonite is a green variety of the mineral microcline, which belongs to the feldspar group. Despite its name, the most significant historical sources of Amazonite were not in the Amazon rainforest, but rather in Russia (the Ilmen Mountains) and other localities. The name likely arose from confusion with other green stones found in the Amazon region. Today, notable deposits of gem-quality Amazonite are found in the United States (Colorado, Virginia), Brazil, Russia, Canada, and Madagascar. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Amazonite offers moderate durability for jewellery, though care should be taken to avoid scratching and sharp impacts. Its luster is typically vitreous (glassy) to pearly, and it ranges from translucent to opaque. While not as historically prominent as some other gemstones, Amazonite has been appreciated for its beautiful green colour and has been used in jewellery and ornamental objects, particularly in the Art Deco era. It has also been found in archaeological excavations, suggesting its use by ancient cultures, though perhaps not as widely as more historically significant gems. Symbolically, Amazonite is often associated with truth, communication, harmony, and balance. It is believed to soothe emotional trauma, alleviate worry and fear, and promote self-expression. Its soothing hues make it a popular choice for casual and bohemian jewelry styles.