Comparison · Minerals
Amazonite vs Labradorite
Amazonite and Labradorite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Amazonite and Labradorite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Amazonite is opaque, Labradorite is translucent.
- They overlap in green and blue, but Labradorite also comes in gray and yellow.
Amazonite vs Labradorite properties
| Property | Amazonite | Labradorite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 6 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | opaque | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.56 | 2.7 |
| Crystal system | triclinic | triclinic |
| Common colors | Blue-Green, Turquoise, Green | Gray, Blue flash, Green flash, Gold flash |
| Rarity | uncommon | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$300+ |
Which is more valuable?
Labradorite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $25 for Amazonite, and premium Labradorite can reach $300 or more.
About Amazonite
Amazonite is a green to blue-green variety of microcline feldspar. Despite its name, it's not found in the Amazon but was named for its color similarity to the river.
About Labradorite
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral famous for its stunning iridescent display called labradorescence, showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange.
Amazonite vs Labradorite FAQ
Is Amazonite the same as Labradorite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Amazonite from Labradorite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Hold a thin edge to the light: Amazonite is opaque, Labradorite is translucent. They overlap in green and blue, but Labradorite also comes in gray and yellow.
Which is harder, Amazonite or Labradorite?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 6.
Which is more valuable, Amazonite or Labradorite?
Labradorite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $25 for Amazonite, and premium Labradorite can reach $300 or more.
