Amethyst: February Birthstone Quick Facts
Amethyst Color: Lilac to deep purple hues
Amethyst Mohs Hardness Scale Rating: 7
Amethyst Symbolism & Meaning: Peace, clarity and calm
Amethyst Zodiac Signs: Aquarius and Pisces
Other Recognitions: Gemstone for 6th wedding anniversary
What Is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a member of the common quartz family. It develops in large crystal geodes in rock cavities left by volcanic gas bubbles.
Amethyst History & Meaning
A gemstone commonly associated with royalty thanks to its purple coloring, amethysts have been used to symbolize deep love, happiness, humility, sincerity and wealth for centuries.
Where Is Amethyst Found?
Amethyst was considered equal in value to the ruby, emerald and sapphire gemstones, but it lost much of its value when vast Brazilian deposits were discovered in the 1800s. Today, amethyst is found in Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, Canada, Arizona, Namibia, Morocco and Zambia. The most important sources of amethyst are in Africa, especially the Kariba mine in Zambia and South America.
Amethyst Colors, Characteristics & Value
Amethyst can range in color from lilac to purple, reddish-purple and bluish-purple. Its color comes from small amounts of iron and aluminum in its crystal structure. If exposed to heat, amethyst can turn brown, yellow or green. Very dark amethysts or amethysts that have faded due to prolonged exposure to sunlight may be heat-treated or irradiated to improve their color.
Amethyst is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group, although it’s very affordable due to its abundance. Color is the first thing to consider when selecting an amethyst or any colored gemstone. Generally, stones with the deepest color are the most valuable.
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 Care & Cleaning
Amethysts are easily cleaned using mild soap, warm water and a toothbrush. Ultrasonic cleaners are typically safe for amethysts except when the stone has been dyed or treated by fracture filling. Steam cleaning should be avoided, and amethysts should not be subject to heat. It’s important to have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked three to four times a year. Amethyst jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft fabric when not worn.
FAQs
How to Tell If Amethyst Is Real
Real amethyst is a variety of quartz with a natural purple color and a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, meaning it can scratch glass. The most reliable way to verify an amethyst is authentic is to have it examined by one of our expert jewelers.
How Rare Is Amethyst?
Amethyst is not considered a rare gemstone. It is found in large deposits around the world, making it more readily available and affordable than many precious gemstones.
How Much Is Amethyst Worth?
Amethyst typically ranges from $10 to $50 per carat, though fine-quality stones with rich purple color, exceptional clarity and larger sizes can command higher prices. Value is based on color, clarity, cut and carat weight.
Can Amethyst Go in Water?
Yes, amethyst can safely go in water for short periods because it is a durable variety of quartz. However, prolonged exposure to water, chemicals or cleaning solutions is not recommended and may affect the stone’s appearance over time.
Does Amethyst Fade?
Yes, amethyst can fade if exposed to prolonged direct sunlight or excessive heat. To help preserve its color, store amethyst jewelry away from extended UV exposure when not in use.
Amethyst is a popular gift option for those celebrating February birthdays and those commemorating their 6th wedding anniversary.
