mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: light lavender to deep violet; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: light lavender to deep violet
Luster: vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: light lavender to deep violet; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or cavities within hollow volcanic rocks (geodes). The color comes from iron impurities within the quartz crystal lattice that has been exposed to natural radiation over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, for ornamental carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and practitioners of metaphysical healing.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. In ancient Greek, the word 'amethystos' translates to 'not intoxicated,' as it was believed to protect its owner from drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its six-sided crystal points and characteristic purple hue. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa. Collectors should look for intense color saturation and clarity in large crystal prisms.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral