AMETHYST: BUYING GUIDE FOR JEWELRY
Amethyst, considered a "fine stone," is part of the "quartz" family and is a purple variety of quartz.
This gem is a variety of microcrystalline quartz. Other quartz varieties in the same family include citrine, rose quartz, rock crystal, smoky quartz, chalcedony, jasper, agate, and more.
The color of amethyst ranges from pale pink to deep, intense purple; there is a wide variation in color depending on the stone's origin, inclusions, and cut.
Amethyst is found in large quantities and is present on all continents. Some differences can be observed depending on its origin. Amethysts from Brazil, Uruguay, and Siberia are renowned for their beauty.
Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. On this comparative scale, amethyst is said to be able to scratch glass. Its average density is 2.6. This stone has a vitreous luster. Amethyst can exhibit a natural bi-color effect in some stones. Its chemical symbol is SiO2, as it is a silicate.
The name amethyst comes from the Greek word "Amethystos," meaning "to protect against drunkenness." This is a reference to the myth surrounding the creation of amethyst.
Amethyst is widely used in jewelry for setting earrings, rings, pendants, and more. This mesmerizing stone is particularly appreciated for complementing diamonds.
HISTORY AND LEGEND SURROUNDING AMETHYST:
Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, was known as the "bad boy" of mythology. Dionysus was believed to have the power to end sorrows and troubles. Unfortunately, this god was notorious for committing misdeeds, especially when he had a bit too much wine. The legend tells that Dionysus was offended by a mortal and decided to take revenge on the next mortal he encountered. Unfortunately for Amethyst, she crossed paths with the god. This beautiful innocent young woman was a devotee of Artemis. Enraged, Dionysus sent two hungry tigers after her. Artemis saved Amethyst from this fate by transforming her into a statue of highly pure quartz. Although this spell protected the young girl, it was irreversible. Overcome with remorse, Dionysus wept into his cup and spilled it as he collapsed. The wine droplets reached the quartz statue, giving it the magnificent purple color we now know as Amethyst.
Amethyst is believed to have supernatural powers. This stone is said to cure all ills. Leonardo da Vinci claimed that amethyst had the virtue of dispelling evil thoughts and sharpening intelligence. According to him, it is a beneficial stone for the mind.
Purple has symbolized power since ancient times. Roman emperors wore purple togas, and before them, kings and queens used this color as a symbol of strength and power. This stone has always been associated with authority:
● Cleopatra's seal featured a representation of Bacchus holding an amethyst.
● Queen Charlotte, wife of English King George III, wore an amethyst necklace.
Given its heritage, the clergy embraced this symbol. Amethyst enjoyed great prestige among the Catholic clergy in the Middle Ages. It was believed to promote chastity and was also known as the "episcopal stone." It is not uncommon today to see bishops wearing amethyst rings. This stone remains significant in the Catholic Church.
In ancient times, people drank wine from chalices made of this mineral to avoid feeling the effects of alcohol, as amethyst was believed to erase the effects of drinking.
It is also the stone of faithful love and of Valentine's Day.
CHARACTERISTICS OF AN AMETHYST
To determine its value, the most important factor is the purple color of the amethyst. The most beautiful amethysts are those with the darkest shades. It is this deep purple that is particularly appreciated. This color also commands the highest price. We recommend choosing an intense color.
Expert advice: choose a transparent and pure stone with a moderately intense to dark purple that does not lean towards red or blue. Opt for an amethyst with minimal inclusions, high brilliance, and a consistent color.
At Celinni, we offer AAA-quality amethysts. This is the highest gem quality available on the market. With a deep purple hue, you will get a stunning color. We are committed to finding the stone that matches your preferences and meets all your expectations.
CHOOSING YOUR AMETHYST:
The color of the stone can provide important clues. A genuine amethyst will not have a uniform hue. Instead, it will display varying shades. To observe this, simply place the gem on a flat white surface. Against this even background, you will be able to see the different color reflections of the amethyst.
THE PRICE OF AMETHYST:
Its price varies significantly based on the variety and origin. The law of supply and demand governs its price. While amethyst is a common stone, some varieties are rarer. As with all gemstones, its price is determined by factors such as quality, color, size, weight, and purity.
Generally, an amethyst has a purple hue. However, it displays a range of shades from deep purple to light lavender. Choose the color you prefer. Alternatively, you might opt for a mineral with a deep and intense purple tone, as amethysts with this characteristic tend to have higher market value.
VIRTUE AND LITHOTHERAPY:
Amethyst helps combat addictions to substances such as coffee, cigarettes, and alcohol. It is a gem associated with tranquility, believed to relieve stress and hyperactivity. This stone may alleviate anxiety, headaches, migraines, burns, and certain skin issues.
CARE OF AMETHYST
Certain varieties of amethyst may experience color fading if exposed to excessive light. Therefore, avoid prolonged exposure to strong light conditions. To clean your amethyst, use a bit of water with dish soap, followed by rinsing with water and drying with a soft cloth.
DIVERSE VARIETIES
The names of different amethysts typically refer to their origin, which often indicates quality. These names usually differentiate the colors of the amethysts.
● French Rose Amethyst: This has a pastel mauve to pale pink hue. It is an amethyst originating from Brazil.
● Brejinho Amethyst: From the Brejinho mine in Brazil, it features purple reflections on a dark violet base.
● Bicolor Amethyst: This unique amethyst displays multiple colors. It is a combination of amethyst quartz and rock crystal, caused by environmental changes during crystal formation.
● Rio Grande Amethyst: Also known as Prasiolite, it is a green amethyst.
● Ametrine: This stone is composed of half amethyst and half citrine. (It is a relatively recent addition to the market.)
● Uruguay Amethyst: Known for its most intense and deep color. It is not easily found on the market.
● Siberian Amethyst: Features a very balanced color between blue and pink. It is often regarded as the perfect violet: Siberia is known for offering some of the world’s most sought-after gems.
● Lao Amethyst: Rarer on the market, with stunning stones and jewelry. Its incredible color makes it a valuable addition to collections.
SIZE:
Due to the color zoning in amethyst crystals, the stone is often cut into a round brilliant shape. However, many types of cuts are available, ranging from classic to more sophisticated styles. You can therefore choose an amethyst in the cut you prefer without affecting its quality or color.
COMMON TREATMENTS FOR AMETHYST:
Treatment by heating at 570° - 750°C. This treatment is applied to light yellow, brown-red, green, or colorless stones to enhance their color. Some amethysts may lose their color saturation under daylight.
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is associated with the zodiac sign Pisces.
AMETHYST: LOVE STONE?
It is said that amethyst helps in finding true love. If you wish to meet your soulmate, consider carrying this mineral with you. For example, you can keep the gem in your pocket or wear amethyst jewelry. Let the euphoria of your love guide you; amethyst will protect your relationship from pitfalls. Additionally, if your relationship is going through a rough patch, you might gift your partner an amethyst piece of jewelry to rekindle the flame.
In traditional wedding anniversary calendars, the amethyst anniversary corresponds to 48 years of marriage and happiness.
CELEBRITIES WHO USE AMETHYST:
KATY PERRY
« I never stay single for long. I wear a lot of rose quartz because it attracts love, and when I am too much in love, I wear amethyst to bring calm to my relationship ».
LUCY HALE
« I practice Reiki; it’s a wonderful energy work, and I use amethyst stones. Fundamentally, amethyst is the most positive stone there is; if you place it in your home, it generates good energy. »
BELLA HADID
Ametrine, the favorite stone of Bella Hadid, seems to never leave this stone, which she finds calming and detoxifying. Ametrine is a beautiful natural stone that is half violet and half yellow. It is a variety of quartz that began as amethyst and, due to contact with terrestrial magma, started transforming into citrine.
