Amazonite Gemstone Guide
Amazonite: Everything you need to know
Looking for a gemstone that will give you courage, hope and balance? Introducing Amazonite – a crystallised blue-green gem that’s sure to become a regular in your jewellery collection. From its rich exotic history to its powerful healing properties, here’s everything you need to know about Amazonite.
Found in the Amazon River
Named after the famous river it was found in, Amazonite was originally discovered in the Amazon River and has been around since 16,000 BCE. Not only does it take its name from where it’s mined, it also gets its glimmering colour from the riverbanks. Other than South America, Amazonite can be found in Madagascar, Russia, China, Libya, Sweden, and South Africa.
Bold, Bright & Beautiful
Amazonite is a variety of potassium feldspar called microcline. It’s a stone that fractures easily and is used in jewellery as well as crystal sculptures. Amazonite is an incredibly soft stone and is typically set into sterling silver or gold to keep it safe and in shape.
The Stone of Courage
While Amazonite has been around for centuries but it was only given its name in 1847 by German mineralogist, August Breithaupt. Before then, Amazonite was referred to as the Stone of Courage, the Stone of Truth, or the Hope Stone. This energetic gemstone has long been used as a talisman that empowers its wearer to discover their integrity, inner strength, and intentions.
Loved by the Ancient Egyptians & Amazon Warriors
Amazonite traces back several years and was used by many cultures. The gemstone has been reported to have adorned the shields of the Amazon warriors of Ancient Mesopotamia, a strong and powerful band of all female warriors, to increase protection during battles. It is also associated with Ancient Egypt. An Amazonite scarab ring was found in Tutankhamen’s tomb, and it was carved and cut into tablets for Egyptian rituals. It transverses across religions, cultures, and centuries.
Healing, awakening & balancing
Amazonite has many healing properties, including physical, mental, and emotional. It’s said to help soothe anxiety, reject negative energy, and awaken compassion. As the Stone of Courage, Amazonite brings truth, luck, harmony, and clarity to its wearer. It’s also said to connect to the heart chakra which will leave you feeling loved and joyful.
Zodiac Birthstone
While Amazonite isn’t a traditional or modern birthstone for the months of the year, it’s a zodiac birthstone, meaning it’s connected to a star sign. Amazonite is linked to Virgo and ruled by the planet, Uranus. For Virgos in your life (people born between August 23rd – September 22nd), gift them a piece of Amazonite to encourage bravery and kindness.
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Image credit: CIFOR, Worldincensestore