Mexico has two famous amethyst sources with very different character. The first is Veracruz in the state of Veracruz (notably around Piedra Parada near Las Vigas). Veracruz amethyst is celebrated for its delicate, slender crystals that form in clusters. These crystals are typically a light lavender to lilac-purple and are remarkably transparent and lustrous. They often grow as sprays or bouquets of elongated, pointed crystals on a matrix of volcanic rock. A classic Veracruz specimen features dozens of needle-like amethyst points “shooting off the matrix in all directions,” with a brilliant gemminess at the terminations.

Though the color is usually not dark, the sheer elegance and aesthetics of Vera Cruz amethyst make it a “collector quality” favorite. Many crystals are doubly-terminated (pointed on both ends) because they grew freely in vugs. Sizes are small – individual crystals are often 1–5 cm – and clusters are typically hand-sized. What Veracruz amethyst lacks in saturation, it makes up for in brilliance and form. These specimens are relatively available (Las Vigas continued to produce intermittently), and prices range from modest for tiny clusters to quite expensive for large, pristine clusters of many crystals. Collectors treasure them for the contrast they provide to darker amethysts – a good collection might have at least one delicate Vera Cruz piece to showcase the lighter end of amethyst's spectrum.

Fragility is the number one concern with Vera Cruz clusters. The slender crystals are very easily broken. Many matrix pieces have some crystals re-glued – inspect the base of each point where it attaches to matrix. A loupe can reveal glue at the junction if present. Ideally, choose specimens where all the major crystals are firmly attached and undamaged. Because the color is light, Vera Cruz amethyst looks best under good lighting; when purchasing, view it under various lights to appreciate the sparkle. Watch out for clusters that seem too densely packed with crystals at perfect angles – while not common, there have been cases of people “building” Vera Cruz clusters by planting loose crystals into a matrix. Natural clusters have a somewhat random distribution and often the crystals have some alignment (they grew from a fissure, so usually pointing roughly upward/outward together). If every single crystal is perfect and there’s zero damage, be a little suspicious (or be prepared to pay a premium if it truly is that perfect!). Maintenance tip: Due to their delicate nature, it’s wise to keep Vera Cruz pieces in a protective case to prevent accidental touches from breaking off a tip. Even a gentle knock can detach those tiny points. So handle with great care.