mineral
Amethyst (rough fragment)
Quartz, SiO₂; purple variety colored mainly by iron-related defects
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale lavender-purple, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; crystal form is not clear in the image. Mohs hardness 7, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage; specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Pale lavender-purple, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; crystal form is not clear in the image. Mohs hardness 7, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage; specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids deposit quartz in cavities, commonly in volcanic rocks. Amethyst deposits range from ancient to geologically recent; the specimen’s age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used for jewelry, carvings, and decorative or collectible specimens.
Geological facts
Amethyst’s color can fade with prolonged heating or strong sunlight; heat treatment may also produce yellow citrine-like quartz.
Field identification & locations
The image shows a small, pale-purple rough piece, but color alone cannot confirm amethyst; inspect for quartz-like hardness and crystalline texture. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Uruguay’s neighboring regions.
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