Gemstone Collection
The Amethyst
A Guide to the Royal Gemstone
The Crown Jewel of Quartz
Amethyst, the most precious variety of quartz, has captivated royalty and spiritual seekers for millennia. Its distinctive purple hues range from delicate lavender to deep violet, creating an aura of elegance and mystique that has made it a cornerstone of fine jewelry throughout history.
7
Mohs Hardness
SiO₂
Chemical Formula
Feb
Birthstone Month
Explore Amethyst Jewelry
Discover our curated collection
Physical Properties
Crystal System
Trigonal (Hexagonal)
Hardness
7 on Mohs Scale
Excellent durability for everyday jewelry wear
Specific Gravity
2.65
Refractive Index
1.544 – 1.553
Luster
Vitreous (Glass-like)
Transparency
Transparent to Translucent
Cleavage
None
Exhibits conchoidal fracture
How Amethyst Forms
A journey millions of years in the making
Volcanic Activity
Amethyst begins its formation in volcanic rock cavities called geodes. As lava cools, gas bubbles become trapped, creating hollow pockets that will eventually house amethyst crystals.
Silica-Rich Solutions
Over time, groundwater carrying dissolved silica (silicon dioxide) seeps into these cavities. The water also carries trace amounts of iron and other minerals essential to amethyst's formation.
Crystal Growth
Under specific temperature and pressure conditions, silica molecules begin to crystallize on the cavity walls. This process occurs over millions of years, layer by layer, forming the characteristic hexagonal crystal structure.
The Purple Magic
The distinctive purple color emerges when iron impurities within the crystal structure are exposed to natural gamma radiation from surrounding rocks. This irradiation changes the oxidation state of iron, creating the violet hues we cherish.
"Each amethyst crystal is a time capsule, preserving millions of years of Earth's geological history."
Meaning & Symbolism
The stone of spiritual wisdom
Sobriety & Clarity
The name "amethyst" derives from the Greek "amethystos," meaning "not intoxicated." Ancient Greeks believed the stone protected against drunkenness and promoted clear thinking.
Spiritual Protection
Associated with the crown chakra, amethyst is believed to enhance spiritual awareness, intuition, and psychic abilities while providing protection against negative energies.
Inner Peace
Known as a natural tranquilizer, amethyst is said to calm the mind, relieve stress, and promote restful sleep. Many keep it near their bedside for peaceful dreams.
Royalty & Nobility
Throughout history, purple has been the color of royalty, and amethyst adorned the crowns and jewelry of monarchs. It symbolizes power, luxury, and noble character.
A Royal History
Ancient Egypt
3000 BCE
Egyptian royalty wore amethyst jewelry and carved it into amulets. The stone was believed to protect against evil and was placed in tombs of pharaohs.
Ancient Greece
800 BCE
Greeks created amethyst drinking vessels, believing the stone would prevent intoxication. The myth of Dionysus and the maiden Amethyst gave the stone its name.
Medieval Europe
500 – 1500 CE
Amethyst became a symbol of royalty and was reserved for the highest ranks of the Catholic Church. Bishops' rings traditionally featured amethyst, symbolizing piety.
British Crown Jewels
1800s
Queen Charlotte and later Queen Victoria cherished amethyst jewelry. The Delhi Purple Sapphire and the Kent Amethysts remain famous pieces in royal collections.
Modern Era
Today
Now accessible to all, amethyst remains one of the world's most beloved gemstones. It's the official birthstone for February and continues to symbolize wisdom and spirituality.
Natural Color Varieties
From whisper-soft lavender to deep royal violet
Rose de France
Pale lilac-pink
Lavender
Light purple
Siberian
Deep purple with red flashes
Deep Russian
Intense violet
Color Grading Factors
Hue
Primary purple with secondary red or blue tones
Saturation
Intensity of color from pale to vivid
Tone
Lightness or darkness of the stone
The most prized amethysts display a strong, saturated purple with red and blue flashes, known as "Siberian" quality, regardless of origin.
Caring for Your Amethyst
Preserve its beauty for generations
✓ Do
- • Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap
- • Use a soft brush for settings and crevices
- • Store separately in a soft pouch
- • Remove before physical activities
- • Have settings checked annually
✗ Avoid
- • Prolonged direct sunlight (causes fading)
- • Extreme temperature changes
- • Ultrasonic and steam cleaners
- • Harsh chemicals and perfumes
- • Contact with harder gemstones
Important Note
Amethyst can fade with prolonged exposure to strong light. Store your pieces in a cool, dark place when not being worn to preserve their vibrant purple color.
The Psychology of Purple
Understanding the emotional impact of amethyst's color
Creativity & Imagination
Purple stimulates the imagination and encourages creative thinking. Wearing amethyst may help unlock artistic expression and innovative problem-solving.
Calm & Tranquility
The cool undertones of purple have a naturally calming effect on the mind. Amethyst's gentle energy promotes relaxation and stress relief.
Luxury & Sophistication
Historically associated with royalty, purple conveys elegance, refinement, and exclusivity. Amethyst jewelry makes a statement of cultivated taste.
Spirituality & Wisdom
Purple bridges the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. It's associated with intuition, higher consciousness, and inner wisdom.
Independence & Individuality
Those drawn to purple often value their uniqueness. Wearing amethyst can express confidence in one's individual path and personal authenticity.
"Purple is the last of the rainbow colors, so it's associated with transformation and transcendence."
— Color Psychology Research
Styling Amethyst Jewelry
Elevate your personal style
Metal Pairings
Yellow Gold
Classic warmth, regal appearance
White Gold
Modern elegance, cool tones
Rose Gold
Romantic, feminine accent
Occasion Guide
Color Companions
Amethyst pairs beautifully with these wardrobe colors:
Styling Tip
Let amethyst be your statement piece. When wearing bold amethyst jewelry, keep other accessories minimal to allow the gemstone's natural beauty to shine.