mineral

Amethyst (Tumbled)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

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

Identified May 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes. The purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities within the quartz crystal lattice. Specimens can be hundreds of millions of years old depending on the host rock formation.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used in jewelry, decorative items, and lapidary arts. It is also highly popular among mineral collectors and within holistic/metaphysical communities.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once considered one of the five cardinal gemstones alongside diamonds and rubies until large deposits were found in Brazil in the 1700s. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive purple color and hexagonal prism crystal habits in the wild. Tumbled stones are identified by their 'v' shaped color banding (Chevron) or zoning. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Ontario, Canada.

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