Amethyst
- What it is
- Amethyst is purple quartz (SiO₂). The colour comes from trace iron that has been naturally irradiated by the surrounding rock. Mohs hardness is 7.
- Where it comes from
- Brazil is by far the largest producer; Uruguay and Zambia are also major sources.
- In tradition
- The name comes from the Greek amethystos, 'not drunk', and the stone was traditionally believed to prevent intoxication and clear the mind.















