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Lovely amethyst in its rich purple colors
symbolizes royalty and aristocracy. the Greeks
named amethyst from the word "amethystos"
meaning "not intoxicated" dating
back to an ancient tale involving Bacchus,
the god of wine. As the story goes, drinking
wine from an amethyst goblet would prevent
one from becoming inebriated.
VARIETIES, QUALITIES & ORIGINS
Amethyst is the exquisite purple gem belonging
to the quartz species. Quartz is found in
many localities and comes in a wide range
of colors. Amethyst is the most valuable variety
of the quartz species. The finest quality
amethyst is medium-to medium-dark in tone,
vivid in intensity, and purple, reddish-purple
in hue. Top producers are Brazil, Zambia,
Uruguay, and Namibia.
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GEMSTONE ENHANCEMENTS
Amethyst is routinely subjected to heat as
a normal part of the processing phase to improve
the color.
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HARDNESS
(Scratch Resistance)
7 on the Moh's Scale
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TOUGHNESS
(Chip & Crack Resistance)
Good |
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STABILITY
(To Heat, Light, Chemicals)
Avoid heat, intense sunlight, strong
chemicals. Abrupt temperature change
may cause fracture.
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CLEANING
Ultrasonic cleaning is usually safe, avoid
steam cleaning. |
REPAIR
Remove from setting for repairs involving
heat.
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OCCASIONS
February Birthstone
6th Wedding Anniversary
Pisces |
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Gem Photo
Courtesy of OMI Gems, Inc.
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