Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and it is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. It is known for its stunning violet to purple colour, which can range from pale lilac to deep, rich purple.

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 Heritage 

 

Amethyst has been known and prized for centuries. The ancient Greeks believed that it protected against drunkenness and had the power to ward off evil thoughts. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," which means "not drunken," reflecting the belief that it could prevent drunkenness.

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Physical Properties

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Amethyst is a member of the quartz family and has a chemical composition of SiO2. It has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it a durable and suitable gemstone for jewelry. It may forms in geodes and cavities within volcanic rocks, and its color is due to the presence of iron.

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Colour

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The color of amethyst can vary depending on its origin and the conditions under which it formed. It is usually a pale lilac or lavender color, but can also be a deep, rich purple. The most prized color is a medium-toned, reddish-purple with a strong saturation.

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Treatment

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Amethyst is often heat-treated to enhance its colour. The heat treatment can improve the colour and remove any brownish tints that may be present. However, it is important to note that natural amethyst can also occur in a wide range of colours, and these colours are not necessarily the result of heat treatment.

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Geographic Origin

 

Amethyst is found in many locations around the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, Russia, Madagascar, Zambia, and the United States. Brazilian amethyst is known for its deep, rich color and is one of the most highly prized sources. Uruguayan amethyst is known for its high transparency and excellent clarity.

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Synthetic

 

Synthetic amethyst is a lab-grown version of the natural amethyst gemstone. It is made using a methods called hydrothermal synthesis. Synthetic amethyst can be virtually identical to natural amethyst in terms of its physical and optical properties, including its hardness, refractive index, and colour. We differentiate between synthetic and natural amethyst by quantitative analysis of sodium and boron by X-ray fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

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Other

 

Amethyst is a popular gemstone used in jewelry, and it is often used in rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is also used as a decorative stone and is frequently carved into sculptures, vases, and other decorative objects.

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Amethyst is a beautiful and highly prized gemstone with a long history and many uses. Its stunning purple color, durability, and wide availability make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative objects. Whether you are a collector, a jewelry designer, or just a lover of beautiful things, amethyst is definitely a gemstone worth exploring.