gemstone
Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color caused by irradiation and iron impurities, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color caused by irradiation and iron impurities, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, volcanic gas cavities (vugs and geodes), and metamorphic rocks where silica-rich solutions cool and crystallize over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in fine jewelry, ornamental carvings, crystal healing, and as collector specimens.
Geological facts
Ancient Greeks and Romans believed amethyst could prevent intoxication, which is where its name derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning not intoxicated.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct purple color and hardness of 7; major deposits are found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the United States.
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