mineral
Amethyst
Amethyst (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2 + Fe4+)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: light to deep purple (due to iron and natural irradiation), Luster: vitreous (glassy), Crystal System: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: light to deep purple (due to iron and natural irradiation), Luster: vitreous (glassy), Crystal System: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and common in volcanic rock cavities (geodes). The purple color results from trace amounts of iron and iron-oxygen complexes that have been subjected to ionizing radiation within the earth's crust.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry making, as a decorative lapidary material, and highly valued by mineral collectors and the metaphysical community.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the February birthstone. In ancient Greece, it was believed that wearing or drinking from vessels carved from amethyst would prevent intoxication.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its purple hue and quartz-like hardness (scratches glass). Look for six-sided prismatic crystals and conchoidal fractures in the field. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, and Namibia.
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