mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, Lavender; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Purple, violet, Lavender
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, Lavender; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and cavities (geodes) within igneous rocks. The purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities. Formation varies from millions to hundreds of millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (as a gemstone), home decor, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and practitioners of metaphysics.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as ancients believed it prevented drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct purple hue and quartz-like vitreous luster. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Collectors should look for depth of color and clarity.