Quartz Family · common
Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and is the traditional birthstone for February. It's prized for its beautiful purple color ranging from light lavender to deep violet.
Also known as: purple quartz, february birthstone, spiritual stone, Chevron Amethyst, Dream Amethyst.
Amethyst properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Purple, Violet, Deep Purple, Lavender |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in geodes from silica-rich solutions. The purple color comes from iron impurities and natural irradiation.
Historically worn by royalty and clergy as a symbol of wisdom and purity.
How to identify Amethyst
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Amethyst examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Amethyst identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Amethyst vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Amethyst.
Where Amethyst is found
Amethyst is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Amethyst worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $10 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $50 |
| Premium specimen | $500+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Decorative items
- Spiritual practices
Interesting facts
- Ancient Greeks believed it prevented intoxication
- The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos' meaning 'not drunk'
- Was once considered as valuable as diamonds
Care & safety
Treat Amethyst as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Amethyst FAQ
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and is the traditional birthstone for February. It's prized for its beautiful purple color ranging from light lavender to deep violet.
How much is Amethyst worth?
Entry-level Amethyst specimens sell for around $10, a typical collector specimen for about $50, and premium pieces for $500 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Amethyst?
Amethyst has a Mohs hardness of 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Where is Amethyst found?
Notable sources of Amethyst include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Russia, and South Korea. Forms in geodes from silica-rich solutions.
What is Amethyst used for?
Amethyst is used for jewelry, decorative items, and spiritual practices.
