mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple to violet; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); SG: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Purple to violet
- Luster
- Vitreous/glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple to violet; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); SG: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes. Its purple color is caused by irradiation of trivalent iron (Fe3+) impurities and the presence of trace elements.
Uses & applications
Popularly used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), healing crystal collections, and as decorative interior design statements.
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
Identified by its distinctive purple color and hexagonal prism crystal shape. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Collectors look for deep saturation and clarity.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
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