mineral
Amethyst (Tumbled)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2 with iron impurities)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Purple to violet, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Purple to violet, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and cavities (geodes) of igneous rocks, particularly basalt. The purple color is caused by gamma irradiation of iron impurities.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), crystal healing, interior decoration, and as a popular entry-level mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. The name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to protect the wearer from drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct purple color, hexagonal crystal habits (when raw), and ability to scratch a glass plate. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous