Ametüst

Ametüst is a violet variety of quartz and owes its violet color to irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements. The hardness of ametüst is 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. Its color can range from a pale lilac to a deep, rich purple. The intensity and hue of the color are influenced by the presence and concentration of iron atoms within the crystal lattice. Ametüst is found in various geological environments, often in volcanic rocks, geodes, and hydrothermal veins. Major sources of ametüst include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and parts of Russia. Historically, ametüst has been prized for its beauty and is often used in jewelry, carvings, and decorative objects. It has also been associated with various symbolic meanings and believed to possess calming properties in some cultures and traditions. The gemstone can be heat-treated to alter its color, with some purple amethyst turning into citrine or a paler yellow color.