mineral

Amethyst

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple/violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Purple/violet
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Purple/violet; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Typically forms inside geodes or as hydrothermal vein fillings. The purple color is caused by irradiation, impurities of iron, and the presence of trace elements. Found in volcanic rocks (basalts).

Uses & applications

Widely used for jewelry (faceted stones, beads), lapidary art, and as a popular decorative specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical uses.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once considered a Precious Stone, equal to ruby and emerald, until large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its purple hue and hexagonal crystal prisms (if present) or conchoidal fracture. Common in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and South Korea. Collectors look for deep 'Siberian' purple with red/blue flashes.