mineral

Amethyst

Amethyst (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2 with ferric iron impurities)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Ranges from light lavender to deep royal purple; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Ranges from light lavender to deep royal purple
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Ranges from light lavender to deep royal purple; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

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

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry (faceting and cabochons) and as decorative ornamental pieces. Highly popular among mineral collectors and frequently used in spiritual and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Until the 18th century, amethyst was included in the cardinal gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, emerald, and sapphire. The name comes from the Greek 'améthystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as ancients believed it prevented drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive purple hue, hardness (will scratch glass but won't be scratched by steel), and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. Collectors look for deep saturation and clarity.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral