4mm Faceted Diamond Cut Coin Gemstone Bead, Amazonite (strand)

Amazonite is a rare blue-green variety of microcline (a feldspar mineral) used as a semiprecious stone. Amazonite (sometimes called Amazon Stone) is an opaque stone, often found with white, yellow or gray inclusions and a silky luster or silvery sheen. It takes a relatively good polish, but still maintains a somewhat raw, natural texture that makes these beads even more appealing to many people. Its name is derived from the Amazon River, although no deposits have been found there. It is mined primarily in Russia, the USA (Colorado), Madagascar, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Australia. Amazonite should be cleaned in lukewarm soapy water, never with a steamer or ultrasonic cleaner. Abrasives, acids and other chemicals can damage amazonite, as can scratches and sharp blows. Amazonite is believed to have many healing characteristics, including improving your skin, marriage, clarity of thought, and social interaction. It is also credited with alleviating muscle spasms, stress, and exhaustion. Even when polished, amazonite beads maintain a somewhat raw, natural texture that makes this pale blue-green stone even more appealing to many people.

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