mineral

Polished amethyst

Quartz, SiO₂; purple variety colored mainly by iron-related defects and irradiation

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; violet to purple, with vitreous luster and typically translucent appearance. It has a trigonal crystal structure and indistinct cleavage, though this specimen is polished and tumbled.

Identified August 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amethyst forms when silica-rich fluids deposit quartz in cavities of volcanic rocks, especially basaltic lava flows; coloration develops from trace iron and natural irradiation. Individual deposits range from ancient Precambrian to much younger volcanic settings.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, specimens, and ornamental objects; fine transparent crystals are used in jewelry. Polished palm stones like this are commonly sold as decorative or metaphysical items.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and is February’s birthstone. Prolonged heating can turn it yellow or orange, producing citrine-like material.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by purple quartz, glassy luster, hardness that scratches ordinary glass, and lack of obvious cleavage; glass imitations often show bubbles. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Bolivia, and Mexico.