mineral
Amethyst (with Pyrite and other minerals)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Violet to deep purple. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Violet to deep purple
- Luster
- Vitreous (glass-like)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Violet to deep purple. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and geodes within volcanic basalt rocks and granite pegmatites when silica-rich fluids deposit quartz contaminated with trace amounts of iron (Fe3+) under natural irradiation.
Uses & applications
Popular for jewelry making, lapidary art, crystal healing, ornamental decorative pieces, and mineral collections.
Geological facts
Amethyst gets its purple color from iron impurities combined with natural gamma radiation exposure during formation. Ancient Greeks believed wearing amethyst or drinking from cups made of it prevented intoxication.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple color, glass-like luster, and hexagonal crystalline habit or conchoidal fractures. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Zambia, and Russia.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock