mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and a specific gravity of 2.65.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Amethyst in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and a specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily as hydrothermal veins and within gas cavities of volcanic rocks over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in high-end and alternative jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Ancient Greeks believed amethyst prevented intoxication, deriving its name from the Greek word amethystos, meaning not drunk.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple color and conchoidal fracture, commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
