mineral

Raw amethyst quartz

Amethyst, purple quartz (SiO₂), commonly with iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent purple to gray-purple with white quartz matrix, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Quartz is trigonal and lacks cleavage; the rough specimen appears druzy or microcrystalline rather than a single crystal.

Identified August 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when iron-bearing silica-rich fluids fill cavities in volcanic rocks, where quartz crystals grow from hydrothermal fluids or groundwater. Most amethyst formed in relatively young volcanic cavities, commonly associated with basaltic lava flows, though the exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, ornamental stone, crystal specimen, and lapidary material; pale or heavily included pieces have modest jewelry value.

Geological facts

Purple color results mainly from irradiation and iron-related defects in quartz. Heating can turn some amethyst yellow-orange, producing citrine-like material.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple quartz color, glassy luster, hardness, and lack of cleavage; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Mexico; the image suggests amethyst-bearing quartz matrix.