Mineral
Amethyst (Faceted)
Quartz (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale to deep purple. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.66.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale to deep purple
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale to deep purple. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.66.
Formation & geological history
Forms in vugs/geodes in igneous rocks like basalt. Silica-rich fluids carrying trace amounts of iron are subjected to natural irradiation over geological time, creating the purple color.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used in jewelry as a faceted gemstone or cabochon. Also popular as rough specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and was once considered as valuable as ruby or emerald before large deposits were found in Brazil.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its purple color, hardness of 7 (can scratch glass), and vitreous luster. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and various locations in the US.
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