Amethyst
The beautiful, warm purple amethyst symbolises peace and spiritual growth. Besides the protective properties of amethyst, this stone is a delight to the eye in any piece of jewellery. On this page, we tell you more about this beautiful gemstone, the birthstone of the month of February.
Amethyst: History and Symbolism
The name amethyst derives from the ancient Greek word amethystos. The Flemish poet Jacob van Maerlant (1230-1288) came up with the theory that amethyst had a sobering effect because the name amethystos would mean “against intoxication”. Whether this is true is something you could try for yourself, but it is a fact that amethyst was already known to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Etruscans. In ancient China, amethysts were cut as so-called gems, stones in which an image was carved. In the Middle Ages, amethyst also became popular in Europe, particularly among church dignitaries. Therefore, it was also called the bishop’s stone. Amethyst was thought to possess magical powers, which is quite striking, as the stone became a symbol of protection against witchcraft and sorcery. Due to its name and its sobering effect, it would also become the stone of temperance, besides being a symbol of lovers.
The breastplate of the Jewish high priest contained amethyst among other stones. This breastplate was set with twelve gemstones, all engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Amethyst is believed to have a purifying effect, helping with spiritual growth, and providing peace and harmony. It is also thought to help in dealing with certain traumas and emotional pain.
Physical Facts about Amethyst
Amethyst falls under the mineral quartz and is a violet variety of it. Of the minerals in the quartz group, amethyst is the most well-known. This type of quartz forms when a molten silicate mass (salts or esters of silicic acid) cools. When this happens slowly, the characteristic large crystals of amethyst form.
Molecular formula of amethyst: SiO2
Hardness of amethyst on the Mohs scale: 7
Amethyst can be scratched by materials that are harder or have the same hardness. For example, aquamarine can scratch amethyst. The toughness of amethyst is good, so the stone will not break easily. The clarity of amethyst can vary from stone to stone. It ranges from cloudy to very clear. At DiamondsByMe, the amethysts are as clear as possible, with as few inclusions as possible.
Sources of amethyst are: Canada, Mexico, India, Bolivia, Japan, China, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Korea, Congo, Zimbabwe, Australia, Russia, France, Germany, Armenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Ireland, and Switzerland. In North America, amethyst is found in the states of Arizona, Georgia, Maine, and Montana.
Caring for Amethyst
Amethyst has been used in jewellery for centuries. It is a strong and beautiful stone that will not break easily. However, an amethyst set in jewellery could be damaged by impact, so it is always important to handle your jewellery with care. Do not expose it to sunlight for too long or too often, as the stone can discolour. The stone may become lighter or, in the most extreme case, lose its colour altogether.
Imitations of Amethyst
Possible imitations include purple glass and synthetic amethyst. Imitations are not widely available because amethyst is found in abundance.
Amethyst in DiamondsByMe Jewellery
Due to its striking and deep purple colour, amethyst may not appeal to everyone. However, because it symbolises lovers, engagement rings with amethyst are a beautiful gift to give to your partner. Or how about a beautiful set of amethyst earrings, completed with a pendant or a ring with amethyst? Because amethyst can vary in colour, it is worth considering whether you want a single piece of jewellery or perhaps a set consisting of, for example, an amethyst necklace and a pair of earrings. If you order a set, our gemstone specialists will ensure that the stones match each other perfectly in terms of colour tone. Take a look at our selection, and who knows, you might soon be wearing a beautiful piece of jewellery with amethyst!
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