ametüsti

Ametüsti is a mineral that is a variety of quartz. Its distinctive purple color is caused by irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements. The color can range from a light lilac to a deep, rich violet. Ametüsti is found in many locations around the world, with significant deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, Siberia, and parts of Africa.

Historically, ametüsti has been valued for its beauty and believed to possess various protective and calming properties. Ancient Greeks and Romans associated it with sobriety and believed it could prevent intoxication. The name "ametüsti" itself is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not drunk." It has been used in jewelry, seals, and decorative objects for centuries.

The hardness of ametüsti on the Mohs scale is 7, making it relatively durable. It typically forms in hexagonal crystals and is often found in geodes, which are hollow rocks lined with crystals. While the most common form is purple, rare varieties can exhibit other colors, such as green ametüsti (prasiolite) or banded ametüsti (banded amethyst). Heat treatment can sometimes alter the color of ametüsti, turning it into citrine. Its accessibility and attractive color have made it a popular gemstone for a wide range of applications.