Amethyst:
This is a violet variety of quartz. The name comes from the Koine Greek αμέθυστος amethystos from α- a-, “not” and μεθύσκω (Ancient Greek) methysko / μεθώ metho (Modern Greek), “intoxicate”, a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness.[1] Ancient Greeks wore and carved drinking vessels from it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication.
It is usually transparent, but can also be translucent or opaque. It is a semiprecious gem that comes in many colors, including light lavender, pale violet, deep purple, red, and blue.It is the birthstone for February and is associated with the zodiac signs Virgo, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
Step into a world of enchantment with our Amethyst Gemstone Collection, where the allure of purple reigns supreme. Each piece in this exquisite collection captures the mesmerizing beauty of amethyst. A gemstone revered for its regal hue and spiritual significance.
- the world’s most popular purple gem
- the modern birthstone of February
- the purple color variety of quartz
- a gem used for over 2000 years
- one of the most affordable gems
- a popular New Age gem
- heated to produce citrine and Prestolite
The first step in amethyst receiving its purple color begins during crystal growth. That is when trace amounts of iron are incorporated into a growing quartz crystal. After crystallization, gamma rays, emitted by radioactive materials within the host rock, irradiate the iron to produce the purple color.The intensity of amethyst’s purple color can vary from one part of the crystal to another. These color variations, known as “color zoning,” are caused by varying amounts of iron being incorporated into the crystal during different stages of crystal growth.
