Description

Quartz is the second most common mineral in the Earth’s continental crust.  It is mainly composed of Silica or Silica based minerals.  Although Quartz is known by a variety of names, the most important distinction between types of Quartz is that of macro-crystalline, individual crystals visible to the unaided eye, and micro-crystalline, where aggregates of crystals are only visible under high magnification.  There are many forms of Quartz including Chalcedony, Amethyst, Citrine, and Carnelian which are results of mineral impurities or heat treatments.

Amethyst is a purple variety of Quartz often used as an ornament. It occurs in color from a light, slightly pinkish violet to a deep grape purple. Upon exposure to heat, Amethyst generally becomes yellow, which some refer to as Citrine or “burnt” Amethyst. It is widely distributed as a mineral, but fine, clear specimens that are suitable for cutting as ornamental stones.