Rock Identifier
Amethyst (Quartz (SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Amethyst

Quartz (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and gas cavities within volcanic rocks when silica-rich fluids cool with trace iron impurities.

Uses & applications

Widely used in fine jewelry, ornamental carvings, and holistic crystal collections.

Geological facts

Its purple color is caused by natural irradiation of iron impurities substituting for silicon in the quartz lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identified easily by its distinctive purple hue and conchoidal fracture; found globally with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.