mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 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 or inside volcanic geodes when silica-rich water enters rock cavities and crystallizes. The purple color is caused by irradiation of iron impurities within the quartz lattice.
Uses & applications
Widely used for jewelry (faceted stones, beads), lapidary work, decorative home decor, and as popular collectibles for mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the February birthstone. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to protect the wearer from drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple color and quartz-like clear-to-translucent appearance. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa. Look for hexagonal crystal terminations in raw specimens.
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