Amethyst, the captivating purple variety of quartz, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, particularly as the recognized birthstone for February. Its history is interwoven with tales of royalty, mythology, and purported protective powers, while its geological origins and gemological properties contribute to its enduring appeal. From ancient civilizations to modern jewelry, amethyst continues to fascinate and adorn.
History and Lore
The story of amethyst extends back millennia, with archaeological evidence revealing its use as early as 3100 BC in jewelry crafted by the Minoans of the Aegean Sea. Cabochon-cut amethysts set in gold bezels were a popular style even then, a testament to the gem’s timeless elegance. In ancient Egypt, during the 12th Dynasty (1919-1885 BC), amethyst held significant symbolic value, appearing as scarab beetles in the tombs of rulers like Amenemhet II and even adorning the burial treasures of King Tutankhamun. Cleopatra herself was known to wear an amethyst ring carved with the image of Mithras, a Persian deity.
The association of amethyst with royalty continued into later eras. The oldest surviving piece of the British Crown Jewels features an amethyst worn by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century. Queen Elizabeth I possessed an amethyst necklace, and the coronation regalia of today still incorporates numerous amethyst stones. Catherine the Great of Russia, a fervent admirer of the gem, actively sought amethyst deposits within the Ural Mountains, leading to significant discoveries in 1799, three years after her death.
Historically, the vibrant purple hue of amethyst contributed to its high value. Before the advent of affordable purple dyes, the color was intrinsically linked to wealth, nobility, and power. For a considerable period, amethyst was considered a precious gem alongside rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, sometimes even commanding a higher price than diamonds. The widespread discovery of amethyst deposits in Brazil subsequently increased its availability, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Ancient beliefs attributed various powers to amethyst. The name itself originates from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “a remedy against drunkenness.” This belief stemmed from the gem’s wine-like color and the association with Bacchus, the Greek god of wine. It was thought that drinking from amethyst-lined goblets would prevent intoxication, or that wearing the stone would keep one clear-headed. During the Renaissance, amethyst was also believed to protect against overindulgence in love, calming passionate emotions.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a crystalline variety of quartz, with a chemical composition of Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). It crystallizes within the hexagonal system and possesses a specific gravity of 2.66. The gem’s color, ranging from pale lilac to deep reddish-purple, is due to irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements within the quartz structure. Color zonation, where purplish zones alternate with white or grayish areas, is a common characteristic, occurring in both transparent and opaque varieties.
Currently, Brazil is the primary source of amethyst used in the gem trade. However, historically, the Ural Mountains in Russia were renowned for producing exceptional amethysts. These stones, often displaying deep purplish-red to purple-red hues, were known as “Uralian” or “Siberian Amethyst,” terms now used to denote color grades rather than geographical origins.
Amethyst forms within geodes, sometimes reaching impressive sizes. Examples of towering amethyst cathedral geodes, exceeding nine feet in height, demonstrate the stone’s potential for monumental growth.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst exhibits a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Its refractive index ranges from 1.544 to 1.553, and it is uniaxial and positive, potentially displaying strong dichroism in certain colored varieties.
The desirability and value of amethyst are largely determined by its color. Vivid, saturated purple hues are generally more highly sought after than paler shades. The most prized colors range from deep purplish-red to purple-red, reminiscent of the historically valued Uralian and Siberian amethysts.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO2 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Specific Gravity | 2.66 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.544 - 1.553 |
| Color | Pale lilac to deep reddish purple |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, amethyst has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Its association with royalty has naturally linked it to power, dignity, and prestige. Beyond this, amethyst has come to represent spirituality, mental clarity, and healing. The stone is believed by some to promote a clear head and quick wit, a legacy of its ancient association with preventing intoxication. During the Renaissance, it was thought to temper passionate emotions, offering a sense of balance and composure.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is relatively durable and suitable for a variety of jewelry settings. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance. Amethyst can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these may damage the stone. It is also advisable to store amethyst jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
Amethyst stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. Its rich history, spanning millennia and encompassing royalty, mythology, and spiritual beliefs, continues to captivate. The gem’s geological origins, combined with its desirable gemological properties, contribute to its lasting appeal. As the birthstone for February, amethyst symbolizes personal empowerment and inner strength, making it a cherished gem for those born under its purple glow. Its beauty and resilience ensure that amethyst will remain a treasured gemstone for generations to come.