Amethyst,
the Regal Birthstone for February
Amethyst, the stunning birthstone for February is a
variety of quartz which has a beautiful purple color. Amethyst’s
color can display tones from pale lavender,
lilac, and mauve to deep purple in color, thus giving amethyst many
different possible shades and combinations.
Amethyst is primarily found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Amethyst is
one of the most stunning purple-colored gemstones in existence.
The History of
Amethyst
The history of this beautiful gemstone
is steeped in lore and symbolism, and its historical roots extend into the past
for thousands of years. The popularity of amethyst
dates back to 25,000 years ago when prehistoric humans used it as a decorative
stone. The ancient Greeks associated the stone with Dionysus, the Greek god of
wine making. Amethyst is said to be the
stone of Saint Valentine contributing to the belief that amethysts attracted
love. Throughout the ages, amethyst has come to be associated with different
gods and symbols to fit the culture and context of the times. Cleopatra treasured her amethyst signet ring
and is believed to have been her most treasured possession. Egyptians believed it possessed mystical
powers and placed amethysts in the tombs of pharaohs. At one time, only royalty could wear
amethysts. The royal families of
many European nations incorporate amethyst stones into their treasured jewels,
thus giving amethyst a certain sense of prestige.
How to Choose an
Amethyst Stone
In any given colored gemstone you look for Hue, Tone and
Saturation of color. Top quality amethyst have a deep medium purple
with red colored flashes. You would look for even coloring through-out
the stone (without color zoning). Clarity
is another aspect you would be looking at.
You would want to choose a stone that has very few if not completely inclusion
free. Size and shape is really up to the
customers own preference and taste. Before purchasing any gemstone ask if the
gemstone has been treated in any way (heating, irradiation, coating and
dyeing). If it has been treated is it
stable or does it require special care?
Amethyst Care
Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the
Mohs scale. (The Mohs scale measures how well a gemstone resists
scratching, 1 to 10, and 10 being the hardest). Amethyst is a fairly hard stone and can be
worn on a daily basis. Because of the
hardness of amethyst you can easily find amethyst in rings, earrings, bracelets
and necklaces. One warning I give is to
avoid sunlight and exposure to heat as it can discolor you amethyst. Also keep away from household chemicals, such
as bleach.
Fun Facts About Amethyst
·
It is
the birthstone for February
·
It is believed
to ward off drunkenness
·
It is believed
to dispel evil thoughts and improve intelligence
·
It is
believed to encourage celibacy and symbolize holiness
·
It is
believed to protect you in battle
·
It has
been a favorite gemstone going back for centuries
·
Amethyst
was a favored gem of Queen Catherine the Great of Russia
·
Amethyst
is one the gemstone of the 12 Tribes of Israel
·
Amethyst
is also mentioned as one of the 12 pillars of the city of Zion in Heaven
For more information about Amethyst
or question on
jewelry appraisals please give us a call at (781) 729-0506 or (207)
604-4423
