Amethyst – 3 to 4 carats – Round

Amethyst is a striking purple variety of quartz, known for its rich, violet hues. It can range from light lavender to deep purple, with the most prized stones often displaying a deep, vibrant color. The gem’s unique shades are due to iron impurities within the crystal structure, which interact with natural radiation from the Earth.

Amethyst is commonly found in geodes, where the crystals form inside hollow cavities in volcanic rock. Its crystalline structure is hexagonal, and it has a smooth, glassy luster when polished.

In addition to its visual appeal, amethyst has a rich history and symbolism. In ancient Greece, it was believed to prevent intoxication and promote clear-headedness, with the word “amethyst” derived from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.” Today, it is still considered a stone of balance and spiritual growth, believed to promote calmness, clarity, and emotional healing.

Amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone, rating 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for use in a wide variety of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

It is the birthstone for February and has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and spiritual awakening.