mineral
Amethyst
Quartz (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and 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, trigonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of hydrothermal solutions rich in silica and iron impurities within volcanic cavities or geodes over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and spiritual crystal collections.
Geological facts
Amethyst was once considered as valuable as a diamond until large deposits were discovered in Brazil during the 19th century.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct purple coloration and hardness that scratches glass. Commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
