mineral

Amethyst Geode (Carved)

Amethyst (Violet Crystalline Quartz - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple, violet, and pale lavender with gray/white chalcedony banding; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous/glassy

Identified March 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hollow cavities (geodes) within volcanic rock through hydrothermal deposition of silica-rich fluids. The purple hue is caused by irradiation of iron impurities over millions of years, commonly dating back to the Cretaceous period in South American deposits.

Uses & applications

Primary use in lapidary arts for decorative carvings, luxury interior design, and as high-end collector specimens. Also significant in the 'healing crystal' market and as the February birthstone in jewelry.

Geological facts

Amethyst gets its name from the Greek word 'amethystos,' meaning 'not intoxicated,' as ancient Greeks believed it prevented drunkenness. The deep purple points inside this carving are characteristic of Brazilian or Uruguayan geodes.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for dull, potato-like basaltic rocks that ring hollow when tapped. For collectors, identify by the distinct six-sided crystal terminations (the 'teeth' in this carving) and natural color zoning. Commonly found in large quantities in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

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