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#6. Amethyst
Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz used as gemstone. The meaning of the word is ‘not intoxicated’ referring to the belief of the ancient Greeks that the stone protected the wearer from drunkenness.
Ancient Romans and Greeks not only wore this stone but also had their drinking vessels and cups made out of this to avoid getting drunk. Amethyst is the birthstone of February.
Amethyst occurs in primary hues from a light pinkish violet to a deep purple. Amethyst may exhibit one or both secondary hues, red and blue. The ideal grade is called “Deep Siberian” and has a primary purple hue of around 75–80%, with 15–20% blue and red secondary hues.
Green quartz is sometimes incorrectly called green amethyst. Prasiolite , Vermarine and lime citrine are the correct names for green quartz.
Ancient Egyptians employed Amethyst for intaglio engraved gems. Medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets as a protection. Their belief was that amethysts heal people and keep them cool-headed during the battles.
In the 19th century, the color of amethyst was attributed to the presence of Manganese. But the color is greatly altered and even gets discharged by heat, it is believed to be from an organic source.
Up until the 18th century, amethyst was included in the most valuable, gemstones along with diamond, sapphire, ruby and emerald. After the discovery of extensive deposits in locations such as Brazil, it has lost most of its value.
Collectors look for depth of color, possibly with red flashes if cut conventionally. The highest grade amethyst called “Deep Russian” is exceptionally rare and its value depends on the demand of collectors. It is lower than the highest grade sapphires and rubies or “pigeon’s blood” ruby.
Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz used as gemstone. The meaning of the word is ‘not intoxicated’ referring to the belief of the ancient Greeks that the stone protected the wearer from drunkenness.
Ancient Romans and Greeks not only wore this stone but also had their drinking vessels and cups made out of this to avoid getting drunk. Amethyst is the birthstone of February.
Amethyst occurs in primary hues from a light pinkish violet to a deep purple. Amethyst may exhibit one or both secondary hues, red and blue. The ideal grade is called “Deep Siberian” and has a primary purple hue of around 75–80%, with 15–20% blue and red secondary hues.
Green quartz is sometimes incorrectly called green amethyst. Prasiolite , Vermarine and lime citrine are the correct names for green quartz.
Ancient Egyptians employed Amethyst for intaglio engraved gems. Medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets as a protection. Their belief was that amethysts heal people and keep them cool-headed during the battles.
In the 19th century, the color of amethyst was attributed to the presence of Manganese. But the color is greatly altered and even gets discharged by heat, it is believed to be from an organic source.
Up until the 18th century, amethyst was included in the most valuable, gemstones along with diamond, sapphire, ruby and emerald. After the discovery of extensive deposits in locations such as Brazil, it has lost most of its value.
Collectors look for depth of color, possibly with red flashes if cut conventionally. The highest grade amethyst called “Deep Russian” is exceptionally rare and its value depends on the demand of collectors. It is lower than the highest grade sapphires and rubies or “pigeon’s blood” ruby.
