Amethyst Information

Amethyst is a striking purple gemstone belonging to the quartz family. Its name derives from the ancient Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not intoxicated," as it was believed to prevent drunkenness and promote sobriety. Amethyst's color ranges from pale lilac to deep purple, with hues influenced by trace amounts of iron in its crystal structure.

Facts About Amethyst:

• Mineral Type: Amethyst is a variety of crystalline quartz, known for its purple coloration.
• Locations Found: Major sources of amethyst include Brazil (particularly in Minas Gerais), Uruguay, Zambia, Russia, Madagascar, and the United States (notably Arizona).
• Mohs Hardness: Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
• Common Treatments: Heat treatment is commonly used to enhance the color of amethyst. Occasionally, irradiation may be used to produce deeper shades of purple or even transform amethyst into citrine through heating.
• Refractive Index: The refractive index of amethyst ranges from approximately 1.544 to 1.553.
• Birefringence: Amethyst exhibits a low birefringence of around 0.009.
• Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of amethyst varies, typically between 2.65 and 2.75, depending on the presence of inclusions and crystal structure.

Amethyst is not only valued for its beauty and affordability but also for its metaphysical properties, believed to promote calmness, clarity of mind, and spiritual growth. As one of the most popular gemstones throughout history, amethyst continues to be treasured for its rich color and accessibility, making it a versatile choice for both jewelry and decorative purposes.