Amethyst also forms the internal lining of geodes, some of which can be over 10 feet tall and weighing several tons.įor additional information, see the gemstone section on Amethyst. Some varieties may also change to a light green color, which is given the trade name "Prasiolite", or "Green Amethyst", as it is more commonly known in the gem trade.Īmethyst is most prevalent as small stubby pyramidal crystals, although several localities such as the Mexican occurrences are well-known for producing elegantly tall prismatic crystals, which are very highly regarded by collectors. When used as a gemstone, Amethyst is often heat treated to deepen the color, or to transform it into Citrine. The color of some Amethyst specimens from certain localities slowly fade upon prolonged exposure to light. Its name derives from the Greek "amethystos", which means "not drunken", as Amethyst in antiquity was thought to ward off drunkenness. It is the purple variety of the mineral Quartz, and its most valuable and prized variety. With a Mohs Hardness rating of 7.0, amethyst is appropriate for daily use in jewelry, like rings.Amethyst is a well known mineral and gemstone. Lower graded amethyst can be carved and shaped into beads and other objects. Amethyst in JewelryĪmethyst is readily available in all sizes, and does not see a dramatic rise in price per carat. It is also found in the United States in Arizona and North Carolina. Today, areas of the world like Africa, South America, Bolivia are a source for the gem. Russia was the major source of amethyst until the 19th century before large deposits were found in Brazil, making it available in abundance. It was at one time considered to be of equal value to ruby, emerald, and sapphire. A dream of giving an amethyst means you forgive the recipient.Īncient Egyptians were believed to use amethysts in amulets as a form of prayer and for protection from harm.Ĭatherine the Great of Russia had a liking for the gem that led to a collection of amethyst necklaces, earrings and other ornamental jewelry.A dream of receiving an amethyst as a gift brings good luck.Amethyst is given to celebrate a couple’s sixth wedding anniversary.It was once believed that rubbing a moistened amethyst on a pimple would cure them.Camillo Leonardi, an Italian astronomer and astrologer, wrote that amethyst quickens intelligence and rids you of evil thoughts.Valentine, the patron of love, is said to have worn an amethyst ring carved with the image of cupid. For those who celebrate a February birthday, amethyst is a symbol of personal empowerment and inner strength.Its calming presence was thought to produce soothing dreams, producing clarity and peacefulness to the waking mind.According to Christian lore, the colors of an amethyst referenced the wounds and suffering of Jesus and it was used to aid in healing wounds.Amethyst is also said to convey strength and wit.Renaissance Europeans believed it calmed lovers overrun by passion.Amethyst was believed to keep those who wore it clear headed and quick witted in battle and business affairs.Because of its wine-like color, early Greek mythology associated amethyst with Bacchus, the god of wine.The word “amethyst” is derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not drunk” or “a remedy for drunkenness.” The Ancient Greeks believed a person could drink all night and remain sober if they had an amethyst on their person.Amethyst can be heated to colors like yellow, green, blue, and red-orange. Those gems, though, are no longer considered amethyst, but rather just a different colored quartz variety. Gems can show color zoning with both uneven color distribution and color bands.Ī number of treatments can change the color of an amethyst. It receives its purple colors from the presence of iron and natural irradiation under Earth’s surface.
Amethyst ranges in color from pale lilac to deep reddish purple.
Amethysts are a type of quartz often found in geodes amidst cooled lava.