Amethyst (Raw Cluster)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale lilac to deep purple; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formed in hydrothermal veins or geodes when silica-rich water cools. The purple color comes from irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities. These specifically occur in volcanic cavities (basalt) or granitic pegmatites. The regional coordinate (Hyderabad, India) is near the Deccan Traps, where quartz varieties like amethyst occur in basaltic cavities.

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, as a decorative specimen for collectors, and in spiritual/healing practices.

Amethyst was considered a Cardinal Gem until large deposits were found in Brazil. The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Identify by its purple hue, 7-scale hardness (scratches glass but not vice versa), and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for volcanic rock with hollow centers (geodes). Common in Brazil, Uruguay, and parts of India like the Deccan Plateau.