gemstone
Amethyst
Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; purple to violet color; vitreous luster; hexagonal 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; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and within gas cavities (vugs or geodes) in volcanic rocks, commonly through the incorporation of trace iron impurities and natural irradiation over millions of years
Uses & applications
Widely used in fine jewelry, ornamental carvings, crystal healing, and mineral collecting
Geological facts
Amethyst was once considered as precious as diamond, ruby, and emerald until large deposits were discovered in Brazil during the 19th century
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct purple coloration and hexagonal crystal terminations; commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the United States
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