gemstone
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, and conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Amethyst in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms within gas cavities in volcanic rocks through hydrothermal processes involving silica-rich solutions and iron impurities exposed to natural irradiation.
Uses & applications
Widely used in high-end and commercial jewelry, as well as for decorative carvings and mineral collections.
Geological facts
Amethyst was once considered as valuable as diamond, ruby, and emerald until large deposits were discovered in Brazil.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct purple coloration and high hardness; commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Pearl necklace
Pearl, primarily aragonite (CaCO₃) and conchiolin
gemstone