mineral

Amethyst (Quartz variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple, violet, or lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in geodes or veins within igneous and metamorphic rocks. The purple color is caused by gamma irradiation of trivalent iron impurities (Fe3+) in the quartz structure. Most specimens are found in volcanic cavities.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (rings, necklaces), as decorative display pieces, and in the metaphysical/New Age collector market.

Geological facts

Amethyst was considered a precious stone in antiquity, often ranked alongside diamond and ruby, until large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 1700s. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos,' meaning 'not intoxicated.'

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct purple color, 7 hardness (it will scratch glass/steel but not be scratched by a knife), and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.

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