Amethyst
Quartz var. Amethyst · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, cut and polished into a faceted pendulum habit
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and magmatic processes, typically forming within volcanic rock cavities or gas bubbles at moderate temperatures
About This Crystal
Deep purple to violet faceted gemstone cut into a dowsing pendulum shape, exhibiting natural color zoning with lighter cloudy white inclusions and translucent to transparent clarity with a vitreous luster.
Physical Characteristics
Purple body color, white streak, no true cleavage (exhibits conchoidal fracture), specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and occasionally exhibits weak yellowish or greenish fluorescence under shortwave UV light.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, birefringence of 0.009, and faint dichroism showing reddish-purple and bluish-purple shades.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Zambia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for daily jewelry wear, though vulnerable to harsh impacts due to brittleness and lack of cleavage.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent color fading, and keep away from high heat and aggressive hydrofluoric acids.
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on saturation and origin; high-saturation deep purple stones command higher values, and commercial pendulum cuts are generally affordable and widely accessible.
Special Characteristics
Displays natural chevron or banded color zoning along with phantom-like cloudy white quartz inclusions typical of natural amethyst.
Lore & History
Historically worn by ancient Greeks and Romans to prevent intoxication and maintain a clear mind; culturally associated with royalty and spiritual protection, and in modern crystal healing, it is traditionally linked to the third eye and crown chakras for calming and mental clarity.