gemstone
Amethyst Cluster
Quartz (SiO2 with iron impurities)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pale lilac to deep purple; vitreous (glass-like) luster; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from pale lilac to deep purple; vitreous (glass-like) luster; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed within gas cavities (vesicles) in basaltic volcanic rocks, or in hydrothermal veins, where silica-rich solutions deposit quartz crystals over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, decorative crystal displays, spiritual and holistic practices, and occasionally in industrial applications requiring high-purity silica.
Geological facts
Amethyst was once considered as valuable as diamond, ruby, and emerald until large deposits were discovered in Brazil. Its purple color is caused by irradiation and trace amounts of iron.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive purple coloration and hexagonal crystal terminations. Found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the USA.
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