Buying Guide
The Gemstone Guide to Amethyst
Loved for
Its regal purple hues.
About Amethyst
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz.
It was orginally considered to be an antidote to alcohol, with the name being derived from the Greek “amethystos”, meaning not intoxicated.
Until the 18th century amethyst was considered a precious gemstone until vast natural deposits were discovered in Brazil and its value declined.
Today amethyst is popular for its hardness and suitability for use in jewellery, its affordability and beautiful colour.
Colour
Light pinkish violet to deep purple, with secondary hues of red and blue.
Where it's found
Brazil, Bolivia, Uruguay, Russia, USA and Zambia.
Moh hardness
7 (1 soft to 10 hard)
Birthstone
For February
