Amazonite is a widely recognized gemstone celebrated for its striking blue-green to turquoise coloration. Its vibrant hue makes it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items. However, its use in various accessories leads many owners to question its durability and safety when exposed to moisture. The specific care requirements for this stone are often misunderstood.
The Verdict on Water Exposure
Amazonite is generally tolerant of brief contact with water, such as a quick rinse or accidental splashing while washing hands. The stone will not immediately suffer damage from momentary moisture, provided it is dried thoroughly right away. This tolerance is often mistaken for complete water-safety.
The stone should never be subjected to prolonged soaking or full submersion, which can lead to negative structural and aesthetic changes. Leaving amazonite in water overnight is strongly discouraged. Extended exposure risks dulling the stone’s natural polish and compromising its integrity over time. Salt water should also be strictly avoided due to its corrosive properties.
Understanding Amazonite’s Composition and Vulnerability
The sensitivity of amazonite to prolonged moisture is rooted in its geological identity as a variety of microcline, which is a potassium feldspar. This structure influences both its physical durability and its reaction to environmental factors like water. Amazonite registers a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which indicates a moderate level of resistance to scratching.
While this hardness is sufficient for common jewelry use, the stone possesses perfect cleavage in two directions. This means a sharp impact or thermal stress can cause it to chip or fracture along these planes. The characteristic blue-green color comes from trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar crystal lattice.
Extended exposure to water, especially chlorinated or mineralized tap water, can affect the stone’s surface polish. The presence of lead also raises a chemical concern, particularly when considering practices like making crystal elixirs.
Best Practices for Cleaning and Maintenance
Since water immersion presents risks, the safest approach for routine cleaning of amazonite is to use a dry, soft cloth for gentle dusting. This method effectively removes surface grime and oils without introducing moisture or abrasion. For deeper cleaning, the stone requires a gentle, controlled application of moisture.
The only acceptable water-based cleaning involves using a mild soap dissolved in lukewarm, distilled water. A soft brush or cloth can be used to lightly wipe the surface, but scrubbing should be avoided to protect the polish. Immediately after this brief washing, the stone must be rinsed thoroughly with clean water and dried completely using a soft, absorbent cloth.
Owners must avoid mechanical cleaning devices, such as ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, which generate vibrations and heat that can cause internal fractures in the stone. Harsh household chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and acidic cleaners should be kept away from amazonite entirely, as they can chemically damage the delicate finish and color integrity.
Beyond cleaning, proper storage and environmental control are important for maintenance. The stone’s color is sensitive to light, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause its vibrant blue-green hue to fade over time. Amazonite should also be protected from sudden and extreme temperature changes, as thermal shock can induce cracking. Storing the stone away from other jewelry is advised to prevent scratching.