Strong heat can possibly turn the stone colorless, and abrupt heat can fracture it. It was also believed to inspire courage, calmness and contemplation.Īmethyst can be cleaned safely in an ultrasonic cleaner, but minimal steam should be applied to this stone. Early man thought that amethysts could prevent diseases, intoxication, and predict fortunes. They believed when quartz crystals are squeezed, they become electrically charged – and have a “vibration”. In ancient cultures (such as Greece), quartz was thought to have magical powers. Small quantities of very high-end amethysts are found in Russia. Four major mine sources today are in Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia and Zambia.

It is mined all over the world, including the United States. Quartz is an ancient stone that has been unearthed with remains of prehistoric man (20,000 BC). The Greeks thought that amethyst was a handy remedy for drunkenness. Amethysts are found in almost all continents of the world, although, some countries tend to have a better supply than others. Crystallized quartz can be a single crystal – or sometimes appears in a cluster of crystals in rocks. Amethyst is a stone of protection and has long been appreciated by ancient cultures and gem therapists for its calming and purifying attributes. Amethyst Was Thought to Prevent Drunkenness While the metaphysical properties of most gemstones are modern innovations, amethyst’s main purported magical quality is truly ancient. Amethyst is in the quartz family and is crystallized quartz. Generally, amethyst is an affordable stone choice and it has a beautiful degree of transparency to it.Īmethyst is the February birthstone and is the stone for the sixth wedding anniversary. The pale lavender is a less expensive option. The most desirable amethyst color is an intense, even-tone dark purple with flashes of red under incandescent light. This birthstone can range from pale, soft lavender purple to a deep dark purple hue. Over time, amethyst became a popular stone choice for all. Purple used to be the chosen color for royalty. Amethyst has universal and timeless appeal with is rich purple color.

Facts about amethyst gemstone