mineral
Tumbled Amethyst
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2, colored by iron impurities)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, purple to violet color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and cavities (vugs/geodes) within volcanic and metamorphic rocks through the cooling of silica-rich solutions containing trace iron
Uses & applications
Used widely in jewelry, ornamental carvings, crystal healing, and as a popular specimen for rock and mineral collectors
Geological facts
Amethyst was historically considered one of the cardinal precious gemstones, valued alongside diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald until large deposits were found in Brazil
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive purple color and hardness of 7 which can easily scratch glass; commonly sourced from Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and the USA
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