Overview of Amethyst
About
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz. Its colour ranges from light lavender to deep violet, often displaying varying shades within a single crystal. The vibrant hues are caused by the presence of iron impurities and natural irradiation. Amethyst is well known for its durability and clarity, making it a popular choice for jewellery and spiritual practices.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February.
Facts
Brazil's Mines: Brazil is one of the largest producers of high-quality amethyst today.
Royal Gem: It was once considered as valuable as rubies and emeralds.
Geode Formation: Amethyst commonly forms in large geodes found in volcanic rocks.
Heat Treatment: Heat can turn amethyst into citrine.
Science
Mineral: Quartz
Crystal System: Trigonal
Chemistry: SiO₂
Colour: Purple, from light to deep violet
Refractive Index: 1.544 to 1.553
Birefringence: 0.009
Specific Gravity: 2.65
Mohs Hardness: 7
Similar Materials
Purple Sapphire: This rarer gem can be mistaken for amethyst due to its similar colour.
Fluorite: Can be found in similar shades of purple but is softer and has a lower refractive index.
Treatments
Amethyst is sometimes heat-treated to enhance its colour or to produce citrine. Lower-quality amethyst may also undergo irradiation to improve colour saturation.
Synthetics
Synthetic amethyst exists and is often created using hydrothermal processes, which replicate the natural growth conditions of quartz. Synthetic versions can be difficult to distinguish from natural amethyst without advanced testing.
Imitations
Amethyst can be imitated by glass or other dyed materials that mimic its purple hues. Synthetic spinel and coloured glass are common imitators in the jewellery industry.
Why We Love Amethyst
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