mineral

Amethyst (Tumbled)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep purple to light violet with white quartz banding. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Deep purple to light violet with white quartz banding
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-rich hydrothermal veins and geodes within volcanic basalt rocks. The signature purple color results from trace amounts of iron irradiation within the quartz structure.

Uses & applications

Popular for jewelry, lapidary art, wire-wrapping, crystal healing practices, decorative displays, and gemstone collecting.

Geological facts

Amethyst was considered one of the five cardinal gemstones in antiquity until large deposits were discovered in Brazil during the 19th century, making it much more accessible. Its name derives from the Ancient Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive purple color, hardness of 7 (will scratch glass), and frequent white or clear chevron quartz bands when tumbled. Major sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Zambia.

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