mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with traces of Iron (Fe3+)

Hardness: 7.0 Mohs; Color: Pale lilac to deep purple; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale lilac to deep purple
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 Mohs; 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 and basaltic geodes. Its purple color is a result of irradiation of trivalent iron impurities and the presence of trace elements. Found in rocks ranging from Pre-Cambrian to the present.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry (beads, cabochons, faceted gems), decorative carvings, and as a popular metaphysical or collector mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Formerly considered one of the 'Cardinal Gems' along with diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass but not topaz. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. Collectors look for deep 'Siberian' purple with red/blue flashes.

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