mineral

Rough Amethyst Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with Iron impurities (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale purple to lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale purple to lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale purple to lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or geodes within igneous rocks (primarily basalt) when silica-rich water cools. The purple color comes from irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities in the crystal lattice.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (as faceted stones or cabochons), healing crystals, meditation practices, and as decorative mineral specimens for collectors.

Geological facts

Amethyst was considered a precious stone on par with Diamond until the mid-19th century when large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its pale purple hue and lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved 'conchoidal' fractures). It can be found in many countries, notably Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and various locations across North America.

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