Specimen at a glance
| Mineral | Quartz (var. amethyst) |
|---|---|
| Chemistry | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal |
| Locality | Brazil |
| You receive | The exact specimen pictured |
About this specimen
A beautiful amethyst cluster from Brazil, the world’s largest producer of amethyst and the source most collectors picture when they think of classic purple quartz. Brazilian amethyst forms inside basalt cavities left behind by ancient volcanic activity, where silica-rich groundwater slowly deposited layer upon layer of quartz crystal over millions of years, with trace iron impurities and natural irradiation giving rise to the signature violet color.
This piece features a dense field of terminated amethyst points in soft lavender-to-medium-purple tones, rising from a natural gray-green chlorite and quartz matrix base that provides a striking contrast to the crystal color. The termination points show good clarity and typical Brazilian luster, with a few larger, more dominant points anchoring the cluster.
A lovely display piece for a crystal collection, meditation space, or shelf — this cluster stands nicely on its matrix base without additional support. As with all natural crystal formations, the exact color saturation and point structure are unique to this individual piece.
Amethyst: the science
- Take away either ingredient, the iron or the radiation, and the crystal stays colorless. Both are needed for purple.
- Amethyst’s color is heat-sensitive. At roughly 400 to 500 °C it turns yellow or orange, which is how most commercial citrine is made.
- Long exposure to strong sunlight can slowly fade amethyst, so collectors keep their best pieces out of the window.
Go deeper
Want the full story on amethyst: how it forms, how to identify it, and what makes a great specimen?
Questions about this piece
What is amethyst?
Amethyst is purple quartz. Its color comes from trace iron in the crystal combined with natural radiation from the surrounding rock.
Where was it found?
This piece comes from Brazil. We list a locality whenever it is known, because where a mineral formed is part of its story and its value.
How hard is it, and how should I care for it?
It rates 7 on the Mohs scale. Mohs 7. Display away from direct sunlight to protect the color. Rinse in lukewarm water and air dry, and avoid heat.
Is this the exact piece I will receive?
Yes. This listing was photographed individually, and you receive the exact piece shown in the photos.
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