mineral

Amethyst Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale purple to translucent white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale purple to translucent white
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified February 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale purple to translucent white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or volcanic geodes where silica-rich fluids cooled over millions of years. This specific specimen has been rounded and smoothed by water erosion in a river or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for jewelry, lapidary work, decorative cabochons, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and crystal healing enthusiasts.

Geological facts

Amethyst gets its purple color from irradiation and trace amounts of iron. The name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', due to a belief the stone protected against drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue, hardness (it will scratch glass but not topaz), and lack of cleavage. Found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and African nations.

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