Amazonite, also known as the ‘Stone of Harmony’, forms either as small prismatic crystals or large masses. Typically exhibiting shades of dark blue, turquoise, blue, and green, amazonite is extensively found along the banks of the Amazon River in Brazil, which is why its source is attributed to this river. This gemstone has also been utilized in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and India, with artifacts made from amazonite discovered in the tombs of royalties from these cultures.
What are the Characteristics of Amazonite?
Amazonite is not linked to any particular zodiac sign; however, it is considered more suitable for individuals born in the spring months. Despite its lack of direct association with any zodiac sign, amazonite boasts unique characteristics, which include:
- Forming in small prisms or large masses.
- Exhibiting blue, green, or turquoise hues.
- Being found in transparent or semi-transparent states in nature.
- Having a hardness rating between 6 and 6.5.
- Containing minerals like potassium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.
- Classified among semi-precious stones.
- Possessing a glass-like luster.
What are the Benefits of Amazonite?
The benefits of amazonite can be categorized into physical and spiritual realms. Known as the stone of peace, harmony, and communication, it connects with the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of an individual. The benefits of amazonite are as follows:
Emotional and spiritual benefits:
- Boosts self-confidence.
- Eliminates negative thoughts.
- Encourages bravery.
- Balances masculine and feminine energies.
- Aids in clearing the mind.
- Supports creative expression.
- Encourages pursuit of goals and dreams.
- Facilitates better communication.
Physical benefits:
- Maintains calcium balance in the body.
- Accelerates metabolism.
- Improves quality of sleep.
What Does Amazonite Mean?
The essence of amazonite lies in communication, harmony, and reality. Utilizing amazonite allows one to find mental equilibrium, calmness, and enhanced communication. It radiates rejuvenating blue rays filled with youthful energy. Amazonite has the ability to fill its surroundings with positivity and is known for its power to strengthen communication, hence its nickname “the stone of peace.” It brings one’s true thoughts to the surface and facilitates their easy expression. One of the most admired attributes of amazonite is its ability to amplify any intention held within.
How Can We Tell if Amazonite is Authentic?
To differentiate between genuine and artificial stones, one must be well-acquainted with the properties of the stone. Testing transparency, hardness, or luster can reveal the authenticity of amazonite. Here are some tips to determine if amazonite is real:
- Amazonite is a semi-transparent stone. Holding it up to light should show it does not let all light through. This test helps verify the authenticity of any piece of amazonite.
- Amazonite is not excessively hard, having a hardness of 6, yet it should not easily scratch. Testing its resistance to scratching with a needle or fingernail can ascertain its genuineness. If it scratches easily, it’s not authentic amazonite.
- Amazonite has a glassy shine. If the surface of the stone being tested is dull, then it is likely not real amazonite.
- Amazonite displays blue and green hues. Stones of different colors are likely not genuine.
Cleaning amazonite is a straightforward process. Briefly soaking the stone in lukewarm water followed by drying it in the sun for an hour is usually sufficient.