mineral

Amethyst

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, to light lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple, violet, to light lavender
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple, violet, to light lavender; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes. Trace amounts of iron and natural irradiation cause the purple coloration in the quartz crystal lattice. Specimens range from millions to hundreds of millions of years old depending on the host rock.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), metaphysical healing practices, and as decorative mineral specimens for collectors.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue and hexagonal crystal habit when in raw form. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Arizona. In the field, look for crystalline clusters inside rounded volcanic rocks (geodes).