mineral

Amethyst Quartz (Chevron Amethyst)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple and white banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple and white banding
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 3, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple and white banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or igneous geodes as silica-rich water cools. The purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron impurities within the quartz matrix. Highly common in Brazil and Uruguay.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in gemstone jewelry, semi-precious decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for crystal collecting and metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

The name 'Amethyst' comes from the Greek word 'amethystos', which means 'not intoxicated,' as ancient Greeks believed the stone could prevent drunkenness. Chevron Amethyst specifically refers to the V-shaped white quartz patterns.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its signature purple color and white quartz banding. Often found in basalt vugs. Collectors should look for deep saturation of purple and clear, distinct white contrast.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral