gemstone
Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide with Iron impurities), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Purple to deep violet
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or geodes within volcanic rocks when silica-rich water cools and crystallizes; color is caused by irradiation and iron impurities.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making, ornamental carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Amethyst was considered a precious stone equal to Diamond or Ruby until large deposits were found in Brazil in the 19th century. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not drunken'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic purple color and hexagonal crystal habit if raw; if tumbled, look for subtle color zoning. Common in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Ontario.
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