Gemstones - Background and Lore - Amethyst

Amethyst has been the most prized member of the quartz family. Early Greek mythology, and its wine purple color, linked amethyst with the god of wine, Bacchus. Other beliefs include amethysts kept their wearers clear minded in battle and business.

One of the original sources of amethyst is Russia, but newer deposits were discovered in South America, Namibia, Sri Lanka, United States, Uruguay, Zambia, and India. Amethyst comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors. The colors range from light lavendar to luxurious purple. Amethyst's royal purple tones are considered the finest color.

Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is associated with the zodiac Pisces. It is believed to increase vivid dreams, relieve depression, promote calm, serenity, and spirituality. It is also believed to help with addiction and stress.

Amethysts are rated a 7 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness, and it has good toughness.
Amethyst can fracture or the color can be altered with severe temperature changes. And some amethysts may fade when exposed to prolonged light.
Amethyst may be damaged by hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, and alkalies

Some amethysts are treated with heat to lighten color or produce citrine or green quartz.

To clean amethyst, steam cleaning is NOT recommended. Ultrasonic cleaning is usually safe, but warm, soapy water is best.

Some other alternatives to amethyst include Iolite, Rhodolite garnet, Sapphire, Spinel, Tanzanite, Topaz, and Tourmaline.

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