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