gemstone

Amethyst (likely tumbled or cut)

Quartz, SiO₂; purple color typically from iron-related defects and natural irradiation

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Purple, translucent-to-opaque specimen with vitreous luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The photo is blurred, so cut and surface details are unclear.

Identified October 11, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Amethyst (likely tumbled or cut) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as quartz crystals in silica-rich hydrothermal veins and volcanic-rock cavities; deposits range from millions to hundreds of millions of years old. Major sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Madagascar.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, ornamental objects, and mineral collections; lower-grade material is commonly tumbled or carved.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz; heating can turn some material yellow-orange, resembling citrine.

Field identification & locations

Look for purple color, glassy luster, and hardness sufficient to scratch glass; a scratch test may damage a finished gem. The image alone cannot establish locality or whether it is natural or treated.