mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Purple, violet, or lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as linings inside volcanic geodes. The purple color comes from irradiation of iron impurities in quartz over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for high-end jewelry, decorative housewares, meditation practices, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once considered one of the 'Cardinal Gems' alongside Diamonds and Rubies until large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue and typical crystal habit (six-sided prisms). Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. Look for hexagonal terminations and color zoning.