mineral

Amethyst

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

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

Identified July 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on 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

Forms in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes as a result of silica-rich water depositing crystals. The purple color is caused by natural irradiation or trace amounts of iron and other transition metals.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) and as decorative specimens for collectors or metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. The name comes from the ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic purple color and hexagonal crystal terminations. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Brazil and Uruguay. Collectors look for deep saturation and clarity.