The Amethyst gemstone is quite popular gemstone. It also has astrological significance. It is said that amethyst gemstones can reduce anxiety and even pain in some cases. Amethyst is a purple peaceful gemstone that is widely used in making high-end jewelry. In this blog, we will talk about what amethyst is and what are its applications.
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a type of quartz mineral. It is known for its radiant purple hue and color. It is a variety of the quartz mineral. Amethyst gets its purple hue from trace amounts of iron and aluminum impurities in the crystal lattice structure. This gemstone is highly prized for its aesthetic appeal. The color of amethyst can range from lavender to violet.
For centuries, amethyst has been valued. Amethyst is often cut to be used in jewelry like rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. It is also commonly used in the practice of crystal healing. It is believed that this gemstone has properties that lead to calmness and spiritual growth. It is also used as protection against negative energies.
Amethyst is a beautiful gemstone that has several metaphysical properties. This stone is also associated with various cultures and historical beliefs. According to reports, in ancient Greek mythology, this stone was used to promote a clear mind and prevent intoxication. The name of this gemstone is derived from the Greek word “amethystos.” It translates as “not intoxicated.”
Amethyst can be found in many locations all around the world. It can be mined from Brazil, Zambia, Uruguay, and Russia. The quality and value of amethyst depend on several factors. These factors include color intensity, clarity of the gemstone, and its size. If this gemstone has a deeper and more saturated purple color, it is considered more valuable.
History of the Amethyst Gemstone
Amethyst has a rich history. This spans thousands of years. Amethyst was highly valued in ancient Egypt. Here, it was used in jewelry and amulets. This gemstone was also associated with the sun god Ra. People believed that it would offer them protection and bring good fortune. Even in the Middle Ages, this gemstone continued to be highly prized. It was considered as one of the cardinal gemstones, along with gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. This gemstone was associated with royalty. It was often used in crowns, rings, and other forms of jewelry. This stone was believed to be a symbol of power and authority.
In Christian symbolism, amethyst was associated with spirituality and the divine. This stone was often used in religious artifacts of the bishops and other clergy members. During the Renaissance, this gemstone gained its popularity again. It was used by men and women for making jewelry. It was popular among the European nobility. In the 19th century, large amethyst deposits were discovered in Brazil. This led to an increase in the availability of this gemstone. It made amethyst more accessible to a wider range of people.
Today, it is one of the most used gemstones in the world. It is widely used and appreciated for its vibrant purple color and its affordability compared to other gemstones. Amethyst is a birthstone for the month of February and is often used in various types of jewelry. These jewelry include rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
The 4 Cs of Amethyst
Color: Pure quartz crystals are colorless. When it contains iron and other impurities, it turns into an amethyst. The purple hues of Amethyst make it more precious. The presence of iron and aluminum can result in lighter lilacs to deep violets.
Cut: A gemstone’s cut determines how many sides it has. This reflects light and creates a shine. Cuts like pear cut and teardrop cut can lead to a captivating sparkle in an amethyst ring. However, they are an affordable alternative to pricey round cuts. The elongated design of these cuts can make the amethyst gem look bigger. If you want good brilliance, you should go for the Barion cut.
Clarity: Amethyst is considered a Type 2 gemstone. It often has few inclusions and blemishes. An amethyst that is no inclusions can be sold at high prices. A gemstone that has flaws that are discreet or undetectable is priceless. The intensity of color and transparency can also affect the way these inclusions look.
Carat: The carat weight of amethyst can affect the price of this gemstone significantly. The more the carat weight, the more pricy the stone is. Make sure that you purchase an amethyst that has your desired carat weight.
