mineral
Amethyst Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; Purple/violet color; Vitreous (glassy) luster; Hexagonal/Trigonal crystal system; Conchoidal fracture; No cleavage; Specific gravity 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; Purple/violet color; Vitreous (glassy) luster; Hexagonal/Trigonal crystal system; Conchoidal fracture; No cleavage; Specific gravity 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments when silica-rich fluids permeate hydrothermal veins or volcanic geodes. The purple hue is caused by irradiation of iron impurities within the quartz lattice.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry, for decorative home accents, and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts for metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
Amethyst was considered one of the five cardinal gemstones until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Ancient Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', due to a belief it protected its owner from drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive purple color and lack of cleavage (it breaks like glass). Check for color zoning where purple and clear/white quartz alternate. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Ontario, Canada.
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