mineral

Amethyst

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with Iron (Fe3+) impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale lilac to deep purple; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale lilac to deep purple
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale lilac to deep purple; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or volcanic geodes. The purple color is caused by natural irradiation of trace iron impurities within the quartz crystal lattice. Specimens can range from thousands to millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a popular semi-precious gemstone for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Formerly considered one of the 'Cardinal Gems' along with Diamond and Ruby until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue, hexagonal prism shape with many horizontal striations, and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, South Korea, and Ontario, Canada.

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