mineral
Amethyst (Chevron/Dream Amethyst)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple with white quartz banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Purple with white quartz banding
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple with white quartz banding; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or volcanic cavities (geodes) when silica-rich water cools. The white bands represent layers of milky quartz formed at different temperatures or chemical concentrations. Most commercial specimens are from the Neoproterozoic to Mesozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular collectible for metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. The purple color is caused by gamma irradiation of trace amounts of iron within the quartz structure. Chevron Amethyst is unique for its V-shaped white quartz patterns.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct purple hue and white 'V' or 'Z' shaped quartz banding. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Africa, and Russia. Collectors should look for vibrancy of purple and clarity of the color contrast.
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