mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2 with iron impurities)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Shades of purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Shades of purple, violet, or lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in cavities (geodes) within igneous rocks and hydrothermal veins. The purple color is caused by irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements. They range from recent formations to millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as specimens for mineral collectors. Occasionally used in industrial applications requiring quartz, though clear quartz is preferred for technology.

Geological facts

It was considered one of the 'Cardinal gems' until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to protect the owner from drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic purple color and hexagonal prism shape. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Arizona. Collectors should look for deep color saturation and clarity.

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