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amethyst
Featured Gem AMETHYST
The Amethyst is a very affordable and very pretty gemstone, and it used to be as expensive as rubies. It gets its beauty from the quartz mineral and generally is quite large in the purple variety.
This fine gem is mined in Africa and South America. It is a very popular and available in all different price ranges.
BIRTHSTONE: FEBRUARY
overview
Amethyst comes from the ancient Greek word for “not drunk.” This gemstone used to be as expensive as emeralds, but then large amethyst deposits were discovered in Brazil. The quartz crystal variety of the amethyst is popular today and far less expensive. Those who cherish this stone enjoy its purple hues and some associate metaphysical meanings to the crystal.
st. Valentine
St. Valentine of Rome wore an amethyst ring that featured the god Cupid in its design.
Leonardo Da Vinci
Da Vinci believed that amethyst crystals would remove evil thoughts from your mind.
164 pounds
Single amethyst crystals can be huge: the GIA Museum displayed a doubly terminated crystal that weighed 164 pounds.
QUALITY FACTORS
All of these factors are examined carefully to determine the amethyst’s value.
color
The most value is placed on the amethyst gemstone with reddish purple to purple color.
clarity
It is difficult to find an amethyst that has inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye.
cut
The cut is usually one of the standard gem shapes, especially the round and oval cut.
carat weight
Amethyst is readily available in all sizes and weights for placement in jewelry settings.