Amazonite Vs. Orthoclase

Amazonite is a gemstone composed of potassium aluminum tectosilicate.^[1] Orthoclase is a popular gemstone and its chemical composition is potassium aluminum silicate.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Amazonite and Orthoclase

For a quick recap of the differences amazonite and orthoclase:

• While both amazonite and orthoclase can be opaque or translucent, orthoclase can be transparent.
• In terms of crystallography, amazonite is triclinic while orthoclase is monoclinic.
• While both amazonite and orthoclase is vitreous, in terms of luster, orthoclase can be pearly.
• While both amazonite and orthoclase can be commonly green, orthoclase is often yellow.
• Amazonite's rarity is more rare than orthoclase.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Amazonite and Orthoclase

The similarities of amazonite and orthoclase include:

• For chemical formulas, amazonite and orthoclase both are KAlSi3O8.
• Amazonite and orthoclase both streak white.
• Amazonite's hardness is similar to orthoclase - they both range from 6 to 6.5 on the Moh's scale.
• Amazonite's specific gravity overlaps with orthoclase - amazonite ranges from 2.54 to 2.63 and orthoclase ranges from 2.55 to 2.63.

Summary of Amazonite

Amazonite is a mineral that is also known as Amazon stone or Amazon jade. It is a type of feldspar that is typically green in color, although it can also be found in shades of blue or yellow-green. The green color is caused by the presence of lead and copper in the mineral.

Summary of Orthoclase

Orthoclase is a mineral that belongs to the feldspar group and is commonly found in igneous rocks. It is also known as potassium feldspar and has a chemical composition of KAlSi3O8. Orthoclase can be identified by its characteristic cleavage, which forms at right angles to each other, and its pink, white, or yellow color. It has a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5, making it a relatively hard mineral.

Table Comparison of Amazonite vs Orthoclase