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.

Rose Quartz is a member of the Quartz family that exhibits a pale Pink to Rose Red hue.  The color is usually due to the trace amounts of Titanium, Iron or Manganese in the mass material.  Some Rose Quartz contains microscopic Rutile needles which produce an asterism in transmitted light.  An all-time favorite at The Rock Shed!

Malachite is a Copper Carbonate mineral that often forms botryoidal, fibrous or stalagmitic masses.  It is often the result of the weathering of Copper Ores and is commonly found with Azurite, Goethite and Calcite.  It is typically associated with Copper deposits including Limestone which is the source of the Carbonate.  Malachite is found in many regions world wide and is usually shaded green in color.