mineral

Amethyst chip or tumbled fragment

Quartz, SiO₂; purple coloration from trace iron and irradiation

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Appears translucent purple with a vitreous luster, though the blurry image prevents confident assessment of crystal form or cleavage. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amethyst forms when iron-bearing silica-rich fluids fill cavities in volcanic rocks, commonly alongside agate; most deposits are Cenozoic to Precambrian in age. The specimen may be a small polished or naturally broken piece.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, ornamental material, and mineral-collection specimen; small chips have modest decorative value.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and is February’s birthstone. Heating can change its color to yellow or orange citrine-like tones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by purple color, glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and lack of obvious cleavage; common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Mexico. The image is too indistinct to exclude purple glass or another violet mineral.