mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Fe3+ impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep purple to pale lavender. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) prisms. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Deep purple to pale lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or volcanic geodes when silica-rich water cools. The purple color is caused by irradiation of iron impurities within the quartz structure. Most major deposits are in Cenozoic era basaltic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting), gemstone carving, and ornamental decor. It is also highly popular among mineral collectors and the metaphysical community.

Geological facts

Amethyst was considered one of the five cardinal gemstones until large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive purple hue and hexagonal crystal habits. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the United States (Arizona). To identify in the field, look for crystalline clusters inside hollow rock cavities (geodes).

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