Amethyst
Quartz var. Amethyst · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, shaped into a machine-carved hexagonal pendant habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and magmatic activity, crystallizing from silica-rich solutions at low to moderate temperatures within volcanic vesicles
About This Crystal
A polished, deep purple, hexagonal prism-shaped crystal pendant capped with a metal bail. It exhibits a uniform dark violet color with subtle internal cloudiness and localized darker patches.
Physical Characteristics
Color is deep purple to violet, white streak, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and displays weak yellow-to-reddish fluorescence under shortwave UV in natural specimens
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, refractive index of 1.544-1.553, birefringence of 0.009, weak pleochroism showing reddish-purple and bluish-purple hues
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally sourced, prominently Brazil, Madagascar, and Uruguay; formed in volcanic gas cavities and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability for everyday jewelry wear despite lacking cleavage, resistant to scratching by most common household items
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush, avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent color fading
Rarity & Value
Common to abundant; low to moderate commercial value for mass-produced carved gemstone pendants
Special Characteristics
Displays piezoelectric properties and color zoning characteristic of natural quartz formations, though heavily processed into standard point pendants
Lore & History
Historically associated with royalty, sobriety, and clarity of mind in ancient Greek and Egyptian cultures. Widely used in modern crystal healing to represent the Third Eye and Crown chakras, promoting peace and spiritual growth