mineral

Amethyst

Quartz (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Purple, violet, dark pinkish-purple. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Purple, violet, dark pinkish-purple
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Amethyst in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed within gas cavities (vesicles) in basaltic volcanic rocks, or as linings in hydrothermal veins, where silica-rich solutions deposit quartz crystals over time.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative items, crystal healing, and mineral specimen collecting.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once as valuable as diamond, ruby, and emerald until large deposits were discovered in Brazil during the 19th century. Its purple color is caused by irradiation and trace amounts of iron substituting for silicon in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct purple color and hexagonal crystal termination. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the USA (Arizona).