Attention lovers of purple and those born in February: Amethyst is your stone! From a light pinkish violet to a deep, saturated plum, this gem, prized by many throughout ancient times, was worn by and adorned objects of Greeks who believed that it prevented intoxication.
As the most valued variety of quartz, amethyst owes its passionate purple to irradiation, iron impurities and the presence of trace elements. The ideal grade is a rich, saturated purple, which often exhibits a red flash in incandescent light. The best varieties of amethysts can be found in Brazil and the far East. Large gems remain affordable as price per carat does not rise dramatically with larger size.
Did you know?
Brazil opened the flood gates for amethyst buyers with the discovery of its large deposits in the 1800s. In some of Brazil’s amethyst locations, the gem forms in hollow, crystal-lined geodes so big you can stand in them. In neighboring Bolivia, amethyst and citrine can occur in the same crystal, creating ametrine, which is half purple and half yellow. This month at Matson’s, we will offer a 15 percent discount on select amethyst jewelry. Come by and see what beautiful rings, necklaces and earrings are available to celebrate the month!
No comments yet.