mineral
Tumbled purple quartz, possibly amethyst
Quartz (SiO₂), likely pale amethyst or lavender quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7; translucent gray-lavender color with a waxy to vitreous luster and no obvious cleavage. It appears rounded and polished, with cloudy inclusions typical of quartz; crystal structure is trigonal.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7; translucent gray-lavender color with a waxy to vitreous luster and no obvious cleavage. It appears rounded and polished, with cloudy inclusions typical of quartz; crystal structure is trigonal.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and igneous rocks; purple coloration results from trace iron and natural irradiation. The specimen has been human-tumbled and polished, so its geological age cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, inexpensive jewelry, lapidary material, and mineral collectible. Common tumbled pieces typically have modest value.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, while weakly colored material may be marketed as lavender quartz. Color can fade with prolonged sunlight or heating.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, Zambia, and worldwide quartz-bearing veins and cavities. Identify it by hardness, glassy luster, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; a streak test is white.
