$Amethyst-bearing quartz (likely polished or naturally fractured) (Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), purple variety colored mainly by iron-related defects) — mineral$

mineral

Amethyst-bearing quartz (likely polished or naturally fractured)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), purple variety colored mainly by iron-related defects

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent purple, violet, and pale quartz with a vitreous luster; apparent conchoidal fracture and no obvious cleavage. Hardness is 7 Mohs, specific gravity about 2.65, and crystals are trigonal (often forming hexagonal prisms).

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Amethyst-bearing quartz (likely polished or naturally fractured)
Scientific name: Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), purple variety colored mainly by iron-related defects
Category: mineral
Identified: August 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a small common specimen; $30–$150+ if unusually vivid, transparent, well-crystallized, or from a desirable locality.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amethyst forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or volcanic cavities deposit quartz, commonly in basaltic geodes. Most specimens are Cenozoic to younger, though the image alone cannot establish age or locality.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and mineral collections; transparent high-grade material is faceted as a gemstone. Common pieces have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Purple intensity varies with iron content and irradiation; heating can turn amethyst yellow or orange, producing citrine-like material.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, purple quartz color, hardness, and lack of strong cleavage; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Russia, and Namibia.