mineral

Amethyst (Tumbled)

Amethyst (SiO2 with iron impurities)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) when polished; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple, violet, or lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) when polished

Identified July 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments, specifically within hydrothermal veins or volcanic geodes. The purple color is caused by gamma irradiation of trivalent iron impurities (Fe3+) within the quartz structure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative tumbled stones, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once considered one of the 'cardinal gems' and was valued as highly as diamonds until large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive purple hue and quartz hardness. While the location provided (Maryland, USA) does have quartz and some rare amethyst occurrences, this highly polished/tumbled specimen is likely a retail product rather than a raw field find from that specific area.

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