Amazonite vs. Turquoise

From afar, amazonite and turquoise are similar looking stones, often confused between the two.  While in appearance they do look different, there are differences to know about.  These are two completely different minerals with contrasting values.

In today’s guide, let’s discuss the differences between amazonite and turquoise, mainly colors, patterns, as well as the shape.  In the end, you should hopefully be a master at distinguishing the two.  Thankfully, it’s not hard to distinguish between the two.

What is the difference between amazonite and turquoise?

Colors

First, let’s discuss the color between the two.

Amazonite and turquoise can have a similar greenish-blue tint, which, as mentioned, can look quite similar from a distance.  However, if you look closely, amazonite will usually have white stripes/markings whereas turquoise will won’t have them.   Instead, turquoise will have a more consistent color without these stripes, but you will be able to notice deep colored veins.  Put simply, turquoise will be more of a solid color whereas amazonite will not.

It’s also important to note that amazonite will be green in color with blue hues, which is caused by the iron inclusions within the composition.  Often, amazonite is either a bluish-green or sometimes a greenish-blue.  Depending on the composition, the tones can either be vibrant or pale.

Turquoise, much like amazonite, will be a greenish-blue to a lighter blue hue, almost looking too similar.  The colors within the composition will be determined by the zinc as well as the iron within the stone.

Hardness

Both of these stones are mostly durable and can be used for carvings as well as jewelry.  Some factors apply, however.

On the Mohs scale, amazonite rates about a six, but this stone can be brittle in comparison to other stones that rate as a six, mostly because of the cleavage.  If you’re unfamiliar with the Mohs scale, this determines how susceptible a stone is to scratching.  A six can scratch a three, but a three can’t scratch a six, etc.  The higher the number, the more durable it will be.

Turquoise can start at a three and increase to a six, with the number depending on the treatments.  In some cases, this stone may undergo a stabilization treatment, which can help improve its durability.  However, if it’s natural in form, it will be closer to that three, which means it’s very susceptible to scratches.  Always keep turquoise away from water or any chemicals.

Patterns

An amazonite crystal will have white-greyish swirls throughout the stone, with streaks and inclusions being very common.  Depending on the stone you have, these inclusions can be very dominant or you may not be able to see them at all.  Mostly, they are common, however, as the inclusions are from feldspar or the white quartz found within the stone.

Turquoise, on the other hand, will have whiter streaks, as mentioned, within the stones, with smaller black inclusions if you look closely.  Like amazonite, what you see will depend on how the stone was formed over the years.  When held, turquoise will feel almost naturally waxy, almost dull.

As for clarity, amazonite can either be translucent or opaque, mainly opaque, but you can see slight translucency when you hold a light to it.  It will just depend on the composition as they can vary.    Turquoise, however, will always be opaque.

Where it’s mined

Amazonite was originally found in Egypt, but deposits were also found in Afghanistan, Brazil and Russia.

Turquoise was originally found in New Mexico, but is not found mainly in South American countries.   Nevada and Arizona have a lot of deposits, too.

Metaphysical Properties

Amazonite is said to be more of a crystal that helps eliminate your negative thought as well as balance your energies within.  It’s a stone that’s said to help increase your self esteem.

Turquoise, on the other hand, will help you become more self aware of yourself, helping you find solutions to any problems that you need help with.  Spiritually, many find this stone as a great way to connect with the spiritual realms.

Chakra wise, amazonite is commonly associated with the heart and throat chakras, whereas turquoise will be mainly associated with the throat.