Chevron Amethyst
Quartz var. Amethyst (with Quartz var. Milky Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; Habit is typically massive or prismatic, but in this form, it exhibits a V-shaped banded growth pattern (Chevron).
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup; Quartz group)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with traces of Iron (Fe3+) and Irradiation centers
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; forms from silica-rich fluids at low-to-moderate temperatures. The banding occurs due to fluctuating conditions during crystal growth, alternating between amethyst and milky quartz.
About This Crystal
Polished oval cabochon displaying a mixture of translucent purple amethyst and opaque white 'milky' quartz. It features the characteristic 'Chevron' or 'Dream' V-shaped banding. Luster is vitreous (glass-like) when polished.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Purple and white banding; Streak: White; Cleavage: None/Indistinct; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Generally inert, occasionally weak blue/green under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Double refraction (Uniaxial positive); Birefringence: 0.009; Weak pleochroism in shades of purple; no significant dispersion in this opaque banded form.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, South Africa (notably the Boekenhouthoek area), Madagascar, and India; typically found in hydrothermal veins and basaltic geodes.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (no cleavage); Stable under most conditions but can fade with prolonged heat or intense UV exposure; suitable for all jewelry types.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners if there are visible fractures; store away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is generally low to moderate, determined by the sharpness of the chevron patterns, color saturation of the purple, and polish quality. Often sold by the gram or as inexpensive cabochons.
Special Characteristics
Banded structure (Chevron pattern); often contains 'phantom' growth layers where one mineral grew over another; may show subtle color zoning under magnification.
Lore & History
Historically, amethyst was used by ancient Greeks to prevent intoxication. In modern lore, Chevron Amethyst is associated with the Third Eye and Crown chakras, believed to combine the stress-relieving qualities of amethyst with the aura-cleansing properties of white quartz.