gemstone
Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, violet to purple color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, violet to purple color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed within gas cavities in igneous rocks or hydrothermal veins through the irradiation of iron impurities within quartz matrices.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, decorative ornaments, and metaphysical crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Its purple color comes from iron impurities combined with natural irradiation. It was historically considered a precious gemstone equal in value to ruby and emerald until large deposits were found in Brazil.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple hue and 7 hardness that easily scratches glass. Commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
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