Layne Designs 2011-05-05 11:46:00

Just in time for spring and new beginnings, today’s rock review features the vibrant, yet soothing Amazonite, known as the hope stone. This pretty translucent gem comes from the Feldspar family and ranges in color from aqua to light green and can often be mottled, including milky shades of brown and white as well. Many Amazonite stones also have what is known as a Schiller effect, or iridescence, due to the presence of Feldspar and Albite that are arranged in very close layers. It receives between a five and six on Mohs scale of hardness. Amazonite can be found many mountainous regions in the world, including the United States, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Russia, Australia, and Namibia.

It is uncertain how amazonite received its name. Some sources say it was originally found in the Amazon River and was thus named accordingly. Others attribute its name to the legendary Amazon women warriors, since the stone is thought to inspire confidence, courage, hope and self worth. The stone was especially popular among the ancient Egyptians specifically for these qualities. Today, people around the world are still enjoying this inspirational stone and likely will for many more years to come due to its unique beauty and consistent availability.