mineral
Amethyst
Quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 7, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, volcanic gas cavities, and pegmatites through the inclusion of trace iron and natural irradiation.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, spiritual crystal healing, and mineral collections.
Geological facts
Ancient Greeks believed amethyst prevented intoxication, deriving its name from the Greek word amethystos.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple color and quartz hardness; commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
