mineral

Amethyst

Amethyst (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, or pale lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7
Color: Purple, violet, or pale lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 26, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, or pale lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and cavities (geodes) of igneous rocks, particularly volcanic stones. The purple color comes from irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements. Its geological age varies by location.

Uses & applications

Widely used for jewelry, lapidary arts, spiritual/metaphysical collections, and decorative ornaments.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February and was once considered as valuable as diamonds until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive purple hue and hexagonal crystal form if natural; when tumbled like this specimen, look for color zoning and vitreous luster. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.