mineral

Amethyst

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with iron impurities)

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

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Purple, violet, to pale lavender
Luster: Vitreous/glassy

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or as linings in volcanic geodes. The purple color results from irradiation of trivalent iron impurities within the quartz structure. Found in environments spanning from Cenozoic to Precambrian ages.

Uses & applications

Widely used for gemstone jewelry, ornamental carvings, crystal healing collections, and as decorative interior design specimens.

Geological facts

The name comes from the ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness. It is the birthstone for February and was once considered a 'Cardinal Gem' on par with diamonds.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct purple hue and quartz-like hexagonal crystal habit or conchoidal fracture. Common locations include Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. Look for transparent to translucent crystals in geode clusters.

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