mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Iron (Fe3+)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pinkish-purple to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale pinkish-purple to deep violet
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pinkish-purple to deep violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and cavities (geodes) of igneous rocks when silica-rich water cools. The purple color comes from irradiation of iron impurities.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (earrings, rings, necklaces), ornamental carvings, and as a popular collector's mineral.

Geological facts

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was once believed to prevent drunkenness.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hexagonal crystal habit, purple hue, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. For collectors, look for deep, uniform color saturation.

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