mineral

Amethyst

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale lavender to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale lavender to deep violet
Luster: Vitreous

Identified January 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale lavender to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and hydrothermal environments, typically occurring in geodes, cavities, and veins where silica-rich fluids deposit quartz over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry and ornamental carvings; high value in the gemstone market and for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was historically believed to protect against drunkenness. Its purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct purple hue and quartz-like hexagonal crystal habit. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Russia.

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