mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender with white inclusions; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple, violet, or lavender with white inclusions
Luster: Vitreous/glassy

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and geodes within igneous rocks (basalt) or metamorphic cavities. Most commercial deposits date from the Cretaceous period and are formed from silica-rich groundwater.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry, lapidary arts, and ornamental decoration. Highly valued as a collector specimen and often used in metaphysical or alternative healing practices.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct purple hue and quartz-like transparency. It is commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Ontario. Collectors look for deep violet saturation and clarity.