Amethyst

Real mineral · common · SiO₂

A variety of quartz coloured by iron impurities and natural irradiation. Typically found lining the cavities of volcanic basalt geodes. Heat treatment above 400°C converts it to yellow citrine.

Identity

Formula
SiO₂
Chemical class
silicate
Mineral group
Bloodstone, Carnelian, Chalcedony, Citrine, Quartz, Rose Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Tiger's Eye
Also known as
Purple quartz, Violet quartz

Crystallography

Crystal system
trigonal
Habits
prismatic, drusy
Fracture
conchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness
7
Density
2.65 g/cm³
Luster
vitreous
Colors
purple, violet, pale purple, deep purple
Streak
white
Transparency
transparent, translucent

Geology

Origins
hydrothermal, igneous
Host rocks
basalt, granite, geodes
Associated minerals
Calcite, Quartz, Goethite
Geography
Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Russia, South Korea

Classification

Rarity
common
Gem quality
Yes

Arcane properties

Affinity
arcane, mind
Effects
mind, warding
Planar origin
Material Plane

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