Violet and purple varieties of quartz. The name derives from the Ancient Greek word 'Amethustos' which translates as not intoxicated - a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. Amethyst is a semi-precious stone and is the birthstone for February and the gem for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries.
When worn within an amulet, amethyst was believed to dispel sleep, sharpen the intellect, to be an antidote against poison, and to preserve the wearer against harm in battle.
Fine amethysts have been set in religious jewellery and royal crown jewels for ages. It was once considered equal in value to ruby, emerald, and sapphire. It’s no wonder that fine amethyst adorns the fingers of bishops as well as the coronation regalia of British royalty.
Colour
Amethyst’s purple colour can range from a light lilac to a deep, intense royal purple, and from brownish to vivid. Amethyst also commonly shows what is called colour zoning, which in the case of amethyst usually consists of angular zones of darker to lighter colour.
Clarity
Most amethyst doesn’t have inclusions you can see without magnification.
Cut
Amethyst is cut into a variety of standard calibrated shapes, including rounds and ovals.
Carat Weight
Amethyst is available in all size ranges for setting into a variety of jewellery styles.
