Quartz

Unknown Owner

Lustrous gemmy purple quartz crystals, the variety known as amethyst, to 5.8 cm on matrix from Piedra Parada, Veracruz, Mexico, in great condition. The crystals display excellent transparency, rich purple coloration, and bright vitreous luster, with well defined terminations that give the specimen strong visual appeal. Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, its color caused by trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure combined with natural irradiation. The Piedra Parada area of Veracruz is known for producing attractive amethyst specimens from volcanic environments, often characterized by sharp crystals and pleasing color. Fine matrix examples from this locality are sought after for their quality and classic Mexican provenance.