mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Purple, violet
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or within cavities (geodes) of volcanic igneous rocks like basalt. The purple color is caused by gamma irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities in the crystal lattice.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Amethyst was considered a precious stone on par with Diamond until large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 1700s. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', based on an ancient belief that it prevented drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive purple color and hexagonal prism shapes in raw form. It can be found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Collectors look for deep 'Siberian' purple hues and high clarity.

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