Color is the first thing to consider when selecting an amethyst, or any colored
gemstone. Found in a range of hues from lilac to deep plum, amethyst provides
inexpensive gem quality crystals that can be fashioned into a variety of
wearable styles. The most valuable amethyst will generally have a dark tone,
and a strong saturation. Generally speaking, the higher the saturation, the
more valuable your amethysts are.
Clarity is the degree to which a gemstone is free of internal inclusions and
external blemishes. Clarity should be considered when selecting an amethyst,
although, it is common to find inclusion free amethysts. Amethysts frequently
have color banding within the gemstone, which looks like purple and clear
stripes, and is treated as an inclusion. If the gemstone is darker in tone, the
color banding may be somewhat masked.
Amethyst is a durable gemstone that you can wear daily without worry. With long
exposure to sunlight, or strong heat, the color of your amethyst may fade over
time, so keep this in mind when entering a tanning salon.
Some very dark amethysts may be heat-treated to lighten their color, however,
sunlight may lighten amethyst's rich color over time. Occasionally amethyst has
been irradiated to improve the color.
Amethysts are easily cared for, requiring cleaning with gentle solution made
specifically for jewelry. Borsheims also offers small "ultrasonic" cleaners
that clean your jewelry with high frequency sound. It is important to have your
jewelry professionally cleaned and checked three to four times a year. When not
worn, amethyst jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft
fabric.
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