mineral
Amethyst
Amethyst (SiO2 with iron impurities)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Deep violet to light purple, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Deep violet to light purple, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or inside volcanic geodes where silica-rich water deposits quartz. The purple color comes from iron irradiation during crystallization (Mesozoic to Cenozoic eras).
Uses & applications
Widely used for jewelry, lapidary art, crystal healing collections, and as decorative interior decor.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the most valuable variety of quartz. The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not drunken', as it was believed to ward off intoxication.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hexagonal crystal points, purple color, and lack of cleavage. Common in basaltic cavities. Found globally, with notable deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and South India (including the Deccan Traps near Hyderabad).
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
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