mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fe3+ impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale to deep purple, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale to deep purple, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as linings in geodes. The purple color is caused by natural irradiation of iron impurities within quartz crystals. Often found in volcanic basalt cavities.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone, in decorative crystal displays, and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic six-sided crystals and purple hue. Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Collectors look for deep saturation and clarity.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous