mineral
Amethyst
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with Iron impurities)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Purple to deep violet, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Purple to deep violet, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as linings in geodes within igneous or metamorphic rocks; color is due to irradiation of trivalent iron impurities.
Uses & applications
Primary use as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's specimen.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was historically believed to protect against drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct purple color and crystal habit. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa. Test for quartz hardness (7) to distinguish from purple fluorite.
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral