Amethyst
THE PURPLE MARVEL
Amethyst is an exquisitely sparkling gemstone of a gorgeous violet hue. From time immemorial, this arresting icon of the quartz family has been desired by priests and princes alike. Moses, the High Priest of the Jews, referred to it as a symbol of the Spirit of God, whilst Catherine- the Great Empress of Russia, dispatched miners to the depths of the Ural Mountains to search for it.
Properties
The amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, hexagonal and has a hardness of 7, which makes it especially attractive for designing jewelry. It has a stratified crystal arrangement, which results in variations in color. Amethyst occurs in multiple shades of purple, sometimes with bands of white. Amethyst's purple color, associated with royalty, is due to the presence of iron or manganese impurities. Exposure to heat and extremes changes in temperature can damage the stone. On contact with heat, cloudy stones turn to a canary yellow or brownish red whilst clear, transparent ones become yellow or almost colorless. Some amethysts fade in daylight. Synthetic amethysts so closely resemble natural amethysts that it is practically impossible to differentiate between the two without sophisticated gemological testing which is extremely expensive.
Where found
Amethyst is widely distributed throughout the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, Africa, Russia, Sri Lanka and Mexico. In Brazil, a majority of amethyst is of a light, pastel hue. In Madagascar, it usually takes on crimson and mauve shades. The Urals supply the best quality amethysts which are clear, transparent and of the deepest violet with glints of red. They have a superior cut and sparkle radiantly even in artificial illumination. Such amethysts are christened Siberian to represent the finest in amethyst. Amethysts found in Thunder Bay, Canada have a reddish tinge, whereas those of Bolivian origin have interchanging rows of plum and citrine orange and are called ametrine.
Mystical & Healing Properties
According to ancient belief, the amethyst, derived from the Greek word 'amethystos' meaning \'not intoxicated', is supposed to shield the wearer against drunkenness, the raison for wine goblets being fashioned out of it. A birthstone associated with the month of February, the amethyst is believed to have incredible powers. It is supposed to protect crops against locust invasion, ensure success in combat and hunts, cast out evil spirits, and help imbibe wisdom. According to gem therapy, the amethyst has a purifying and soothing effect. It wards of negative vibes, seals friendships and helps boost concentration. As an emblem of faith and sanctity, the amethyst was the popular choice of the Catholic clergy, the reason for its discrete presence in the Papal Ring.
Amethyst in Jewelry
Amethyst has a universal appeal. It has a rich, attractive hue, is found in abundance, is reasonably priced, and is available in extensive collection of cut stones. The price is highly dependent on quality, which differs a great deal. Amethyst quartz with white bands is excellent to shape and can be carved into an assortment of jewelry pieces, such as rings, bracelets, earrings, chains, brooches or cufflinks. Amethysts are usually cut as stunning circular or oval stones to capitalize on their color. Amethyst is shaped in several distinctive styles. It is cut as cabochons for rings, pendants, earrings and cuff links. It can be fashioned into a superb floral creation in violet for a beautiful locket or pretty ear studs or molded into a bunch of grapes and pinned as a lovely brooch. Amethyst beads can be interspersed with gold beads, rock crystal, pearls, or other colored gemstone beads and fashioned into striking chains of different sizes. Amethysts set in gold and bejeweled with diamonds are simply irresistible. Unrivalled in beauty and color amethysts have unquestionably hit a purple patch.
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