Sought after for centuries for its beautiful vibrant color, the gemstone amethyst represents love, royalty, and protection. Found in several countries around the world, amethyst is readily available in many different sizes, shapes, and shades of purple. Traditionally, amethyst is given for a sixth wedding anniversary and is also beloved as the birthstone for those born in the month of February.
Before many amethyst mines were discovered, this variety of quartz was considered a cardinal gem and was held at a similar level of esteemed value as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Because of this, it was widely used in crowns and other jewelry designed for royalty. In the 19th century, several amethyst mines were discovered in Brazil which led to a new abundance of the beautiful gemstone.
While Russia was previously considered the major source of amethyst, the discovery of Brazilian mines led to Brazil becoming one of the main suppliers of the purple gemstone. They are also found in other areas of the world such as Bolivia, South America and Zambia, Africa. Amethyst has also been mined in Phoenix, Arizona in the United States.
Ranging in color from lilac to deep hues of purple, amethyst looks stunning set in many different metals. While it is most commonly found in the color purple, it is also available in a pale green shade (called Prasiolite), and a bi-colored quartz called Ametrine which contains both amethyst and citrine.
Caring for Your Amethyst Jewelry
Though amethyst is considered suitable for daily wear, it may show signs of wear over time. Measuring a 7 on the MOHS scale of hardness, the February birthstone is durable, however it is more prone to damage than other gemstones such as sapphires and rubies. With this in mind, take gentle care of your amethyst jewelry. Clean frequently with mild soap and a soft bristle brush but avoid harsher cleaning methods such as steam cleaning.
Before many amethyst mines were discovered, this variety of quartz was considered a cardinal gem and was held at a similar level of esteemed value as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Because of this, it was widely used in crowns and other jewelry designed for royalty. In the 19th century, several amethyst mines were discovered in Brazil which led to a new abundance of the beautiful gemstone.
While Russia was previously considered the major source of amethyst, the discovery of Brazilian mines led to Brazil becoming one of the main suppliers of the purple gemstone. They are also found in other areas of the world such as Bolivia, South America and Zambia, Africa. Amethyst has also been mined in Phoenix, Arizona in the United States.
Ranging in color from lilac to deep hues of purple, amethyst looks stunning set in many different metals. While it is most commonly found in the color purple, it is also available in a pale green shade (called Prasiolite), and a bi-colored quartz called Ametrine which contains both amethyst and citrine.
Caring for Your Amethyst Jewelry
Though amethyst is considered suitable for daily wear, it may show signs of wear over time. Measuring a 7 on the MOHS scale of hardness, the February birthstone is durable, however it is more prone to damage than other gemstones such as sapphires and rubies. With this in mind, take gentle care of your amethyst jewelry. Clean frequently with mild soap and a soft bristle brush but avoid harsher cleaning methods such as steam cleaning.