mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 on Mohs scale, pale to deep purple/lavender color, vitreous (glass-like) luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity ~2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, pale to deep purple/lavender color, vitreous (glass-like) luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity ~2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and geodes inside volcanic rocks. Natural irradiation of trace iron impurities gives it its characteristic purple coloration.
Uses & applications
Used widely in lapidary work, wire-wrapping, jewelry making, tumbled stones, and rock collections.
Geological facts
The name comes from the ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as the ancient Greeks believed the stone protected its owner from drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its purple tone, glass-like fracture surfaces, and inability to be scratched by steel. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and South Africa.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary