Mineral Species:  Quartz var. Amethyst

Chemical Formula: SiO2

Chemical Name: Silicon Dioxide

Mineral Class: Framework Silicate

Mineral Notes:  Amethyst is a variety of macrocrystalline Quartz (SiO2) displaying shades of violet due to the presence of small amounts of Fe3+ ions. The colour is usually strongest in the crystal terminations. It is a popular semi-precious gemstone. However the colour can fade in strong light. Interestingly heating can give rise to green, yellow and brown tones.

Description: A mass of violet Amethyst crystals upon a massive crystalline quartz matrix. The colour of the crystals is very intense, and although small, the crystals are extremely well formed. Most have pyramidal terminations and have good clarity.

Location: (A location classic) - Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.