Amethyst Crystal Skulls

An amethyst crystal skull, carved from a solid raw block of Brazilian quartz. The deep violet color lends a contemplative presence to the classic memento mori motif.

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, colored by trace iron elements and natural radiation exposure over long periods. With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is hard enough for detailed sculptural work, yet can still be worked without micro-cracks.

Crystal skulls are a traditional form of mineral sculpture with a long cultural and historical significance. The carving work follows a workshop tradition in which anatomically correct proportions are considered a mark of quality. The precision of detail in this piece is the result of extensive experience in diamond grinding workshops.

Brazilian amethyst deposits in Rio Grande do Sul provide raw blocks large enough for such sculptures. Most commercial geodes are disassembled; skull sculptures require undivided solid material.

A sculptural piece with cultural-historical depth and mineralogical substance.