mineral
Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide with iron impurities), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple/Violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Purple/Violet
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple/Violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes. The purple color is caused by irradiation, impurities of iron, and the presence of trace elements. Found in rocks ranging from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, as a healing crystal in alternative medicine, and as a popular collectible specimen.
Geological facts
Amethyst was once considered one of the five cardinal gemstones until large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Greek word 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its purple color and hexagonal crystal habit. Common in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Collectors should look for deep uniform color and lack of inclusions.
