mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, to pale lavender, often with white quartz banding (Chevron pattern); Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous/glassy

Identified June 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as linings within volcanic rock cavities (geodes). The purple color comes from irradiation of iron impurities within the quartz lattice. Most commercial deposits are millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Widely used for jewelry (faceted stones and cabochons), ornamental decoration, holistic practices, and as a popular starter specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as the ancients believed it could prevent drunkenness. Some amethyst can fade if left in direct sunlight for extended periods.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct purple hue and hardness (it will scratch glass). Often found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Look for white V-shaped 'chevron' patterns in tumbled stones like this one.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock