mineral
Polished amethyst
Amethyst, purple variety of quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectViolet to lavender, transparent to translucent, with a glassy luster; trigonal crystal structure and no cleavage. Hardness 7 on the Mohs scale; specific gravity about 2.65. This appears to be a polished, possibly cut cabochon.
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Physical properties
Violet to lavender, transparent to translucent, with a glassy luster; trigonal crystal structure and no cleavage. Hardness 7 on the Mohs scale; specific gravity about 2.65. This appears to be a polished, possibly cut cabochon.
Formation & geological history
Amethyst forms when trace iron colors quartz crystals in silica-rich fluids, commonly in cavities in volcanic rocks. Amethyst deposits range from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry, ornaments, and mineral collections; lower-grade material is also used for decorative objects.
Geological facts
Amethyst’s color can fade with prolonged heat or intense sunlight. The image shows a polished stone, so its original crystal shape and geological setting are not visible.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its purple color, glassy luster, hardness, and lack of cleavage; common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and other quartz-bearing regions. The reported German location is not a typical amethyst source, so the stone may have been transported or purchased.
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