mineral
Amethyst (as seen in jewelry)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Purple, violet, or lavender
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and cavities (geodes) of igneous rocks when silica-rich solutions crystallize. The purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+).
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings), decorative items, and as collectible mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Amethyst was considered a precious stone equal to diamond until large deposits were found in Brazil in the 19th century. The name comes from the Ancient Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive purple color and hexagonal prism habits in raw form. In the field, it is often found lining the inside of volcanic geodes in regions like Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
