What is Amethyst
Amethyst is a member of the common quartz family and develops in large crystal geodes, in rock cavities left by volcanic gas bubbles. The best amethyst is faceted for gemstones, others are tumbled or made into ornaments for decorative pieces.
Amethyst was a favorite gemstone of the Catholic church and of European royalty. It was considered equal in value to ruby, emerald, and sapphire gemstones. Amethyst lost much of its value when vast Brazilian deposits were discovered in the 1800s. Amethyst is found in Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, Canada, U.S. (Arizona), Namibia, Morocco, Zambia.
Amethyst Color and Characteristics
Amethyst can range in color from lilac to purple, reddish-purple, and bluish-purple. Its color comes from small amounts of iron and aluminum in its crystal structure. If exposed to heat, amethyst can turn brown, yellow, or green. When found in nature, the color tends to be strong at the tip and milky at the base.
Very dark amethysts or amethysts that have faded due to prolonged exposure to sunlight may be heat-treated or irradiated to improve their color.
Amethyst is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group, although very affordable due to its abundance. Color is the first thing to consider when selecting an amethyst, or any colored gemstone. Found in a range of hues from lilac to deep plum, amethyst provides inexpensive gem quality crystals that can be fashioned into a variety of wearable styles. Generally, stones with the deepest color are the most valuable.
Amethysts frequently have color banding within the gemstone, which looks like purple and clear stripes, and is treated as an inclusion. If the gemstone is darker in tone, the color banding may be somewhat masked.
Some very dark amethysts may be heat-treated to lighten their color, however, sunlight may lighten amethyst’s rich color over time. Occasionally amethyst has been irradiated to improve the color.
Amethysts are easily cared for, requiring cleaning with a gentle solution made specifically for jewelry. Borsheims also offers small “ultrasonic” cleaners that clean your jewelry with high-frequency sound. It is important to have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked three to four times a year. When not worn, amethyst jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft fabric.