mineral

Amethyst Quartz

Amethyst (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

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

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or geodes within igneous rocks. It occurs when silica-rich fluids permeate gas cavities in lava and undergo crystallization over thousands of years. The purple color is caused by irradiation and iron impurities.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (as a gemstone), ornamental carving, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic purple color, hexagonal crystal points, and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Arizona, USA.