Behind The Gems: Amazonite
“Behind the Gems” is a long-running monthly series that takes you on an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of our signature collections.
It's time for another gemstone to take centre stage: amazonite. We’re taking a look at its most important characteristics and how they translate into actual jewellery.
Amazonite: Composition, Origins And Symbolism
Amazonite is part of the microline mineral family and it is usually sourced from just a few countries: Russia, China, Libya and the United States.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness it is a 6.0 to 6.5. This means that amazonite is better suited for earrings, necklaces or bracelets and less so for rings, which are high contact items.
In terms of colour, amazonites range from a gorgeous saturated green to an irresistible blueish green. The exact shade will vary in accordance to the amount of lead, iron and water that were trapped in the stone as it formed. The most valuable amazonites exhibit evenly distributed colour and saturation.
Whichever its exact hue, this gemstone is thought to help lower stress levels and bring good fortune to its wearer.
Amazonite: A Short History
Amazonite is not… found in the Amazon river. But there is a strong connection nonetheless. The gemstone is named after the river because they both share a striking blue-green colour.
From a historical point of view, amazonite has been around a long time, as attested by archeological finds in Egypt and Mesopotamia. However, unlike other gems, it hasn’t been mentioned as a distinct mineral until relatively recently, in the 18th century.
Our Amazonite Pieces: The Backstory
Amazonite’s signature colour and opaque appearance make it the perfect statement stone. So here at McFarlane Fine Jewellery, we’ve created bright and cheerful pieces that fully capture the eye.
For example, in these drop earrings, amazonites take the spotlight with their 18ct yellow gold hooks:
And in these earrings, amazonites look stunning paired with Rose Gold Loops:
Rose Gold & Amazonite Pendant Earrings
Shop them for yourself and enioy drawing all the attention when you wear amazonite.