ENCYCLOPEDIA
AMETHYST FULL GUIDE
CHARACTERISTICS OF AMETHYST
Etymology: The name "amethyst" is derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not intoxicated," as it was believed to protect against drunkenness.
Family: Quartz, a widely occurring mineral that includes various color varieties.
Chemical Composition: Primarily Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂) with trace elements such as iron, which contribute to its purple color.
Hardness: Scores 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for everyday use.
Density: Typically around 2.65 – 2.67 g/cm³, standard for quartz.
Optical Properties: Exhibits pleochroism, showing different colors when viewed from different angles.
Refractive Index: Ranges from 1.544 to 1.553, enhancing its brilliance and visual appeal.
Birefringence: Low, approximately 0.009.
Crystal System: Hexagonal, consistent with the quartz family.
THE ORIGIN OF AMETHYST
Amethyst is found in various locations around the world, with significant deposits in several key regions. Here are the primary sources of amethyst:
Brazil: One of the largest producers of amethyst, particularly known for its high-quality, deep purple stones. Major deposits are found in states like Minas Gerais.
Uruguay: Known for its dark purple amethyst, often exhibiting rich color and exceptional clarity. Uruguay is particularly famous for its geodes.
Zambia: This country produces high-quality amethyst with vibrant color, and Zambian amethyst is highly valued in the gemstone market.
Other Sources: Amethyst can also be found in locations such as Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, and the United States (notably in Arizona).
CARAT
The carat weight of amethyst refers to its weight, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams (0.2 grams). Amethyst is available in a wide range of sizes, from small accent stones under 1 carat to larger statement pieces that can weigh several carats, commonly found in jewelry ranging from 2 to 10 carats or more. While larger amethysts with rich color and good clarity can command higher prices, overall quality—including color intensity and clarity—is crucial in determining value, not just carat weight. Additionally, due to its relatively low density (2.65 – 2.67 g/cm³), amethyst can appear larger than other gemstones of the same carat weight, making it a popular choice for larger jewelry pieces.
THE COLOR OF AMETHYST
Amethyst is celebrated for its captivating range of purple hues, which can vary from light lavender to deep violet. The color is primarily due to the presence of iron and other trace elements in its chemical composition.
HUE
The primary hue of amethyst is purple, but it can also exhibit shades of violet and lavender. The most sought-after amethysts typically have a rich, deep purple hue, often referred to as "Royal Purple."
SATURATION
Saturation refers to the intensity of the color. High saturation in amethyst means the purple is vivid and vibrant, while lower saturation results in a more muted or pastel appearance. The best-quality amethysts exhibit a strong saturation that enhances their visual appeal.
TONE
Tone indicates the lightness or darkness of the color. Amethyst can range from very light (almost transparent lavender) to very dark (deep purple). The ideal tone for amethyst is medium to dark, striking a balance that showcases the stone's color without compromising clarity.
THE CLARITY OF AMETHYST
The clarity of amethyst plays a crucial role in determining its overall quality and value. High-quality amethyst is typically transparent, allowing light to enhance its beautiful purple hues. While some inclusions, such as tiny gas bubbles or color zoning, may occur, minimal inclusions are preferred for a stone to be considered top quality. Amethyst clarity is often graded on a scale similar to that of diamonds, ranging from "Included" (I), where inclusions are noticeable to the naked eye, to "Flawless" (F), where no inclusions are visible under magnification. Most fine amethysts fall within the "Very Slightly Included" (VS) to "Internally Flawless" (IF) categories. Higher clarity generally increases a stone's desirability and value, allowing its rich colors to shine without distractions.
CUT & SHAPES
ROUND AMETHYST
OVAL AMETHYST
EMERALD AMETHYST
PEAR AMETHYST
CALENDAR
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is cherished for its captivating beauty and rich symbolism. Known for its range of hues—from light lavender to deep violet—amethyst is often associated with qualities such as tranquility, clarity, and protection. This remarkable gemstone is not only celebrated for its aesthetic appeal but also for its purported healing properties, believed to promote peace and balance in the wearer’s life. Amethyst is available in various cuts and shapes, making it a versatile choice for jewelry, from elegant rings to striking pendants. With its combination of beauty and meaning, amethyst remains a beloved choice for both personal adornment and thoughtful gifts.
TREATMENT
Green sapphires often undergo treatments to enhance their color and clarity, making high-quality, untreated green sapphires quite rare. The most common treatment for green sapphires, similar to rubies, is heat treatment. This process involves heating the sapphire to temperatures, often around 1300°C, which can intensify its green color and improve clarity by making inclusions less visible or altering their appearance to blend better with the stone.