mineral
Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins or gas cavities within volcanic rocks as silica-rich fluids cool over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in fine jewelry, ornamental carvings, and spiritual crystal collections.
Geological facts
The purple color results from natural irradiation and trace amounts of iron substituting for silicon within the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct purple color and crystal form; commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
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