Amethyst is a variety of quartz. Its name comes from the Koine Greek word “amethystos,” which means “intoxicate.” Ancient Greeks called the stone that name because they believed amethysts protected the owners from drunkenness. Indeed, they would even carve drinking vessels from amethysts in the hope that it would prevent intoxication. A more straightforward solution may have been to give up alcohol.
Today, people may not purchase amethysts to retain sobriety. But the beautiful gemstones are still popular for a variety of jewelry pieces. If you want to buy amethyst jewelry pieces, you need to know what to look for before you part with your cash. So, check out the following insightful definitive guide.
Evaluate the Color
Amethysts are available in a variety of jewelry pieces, such as rings, earrings, brooches, bracelets, and necklaces. The latter is one of the most popular choices of amethyst jewelry. Check out Diamondere’s amethyst necklace selection to view some of the most beautiful and stylish designs available.
The striking purple of amethysts is one of the main factors that contribute to the gemstones being so highly regarded. But the tone can range from virtually invisible to a light-lavender or pale-violet color to a deep purple hue. You can also find amethysts that have red or blue secondary colors. Generally, the deeper the purple, the more desirable the amethyst stone will be and the higher price it can command if you are looking for a gemstone to impress, opt for a deep purple amethyst or the very best grade for amethyst – the Deep Siberian, which has an intensely rich purple hue. Most people choose amethyst colors simply according to their personal preference. So, if you like a pinkish color, go for a pale-colored amethyst stone.
To evaluate the color in more detail, look at the amethyst in natural daylight, as the hue’s accuracy can be seen more clearly. If you view the stone under artificial light, the color can look less saturated, especially when the light is overly intense. Examine the amethyst under a variety of lighting conditions, so you can see what it will look like when you wear the jewelry piece in different environments.
Evaluate the Clarity
The clearer an amethyst gemstone is, the higher quality it will be. Like other gemstones, amethysts can contain internal imperfections known as inclusions. When a stone has few visible defects inside the stone and on its surface, the stone will have high quality. So, view the amethyst you are considering purchasing in a well-lit setting so you can fully scrutinize how clear the stone is.
Evaluate the Cut
Typically, amethysts are cut to maximize their color. Unlike diamonds, there are no pre-set ideal proportions. But you will find amethysts cut in various ways, such as oval, triangle, marquise, or cushion. While clear amethysts are most sought-after, there is a type of cut that embraces stones with inclusions. The cabochon cut is suitable for stones with inclusions inside or on the surface because cabochons bank on the interesting patterns caused by the small imperfections. In other words, inclusions and zoning, which are usually considered to be flaws, are used to their advantage with cabochon cutting.
Another cutting option is the fantasy cut. Because amethysts are relatively softer than most precious gems, cutters can etch creative and artistic designs into the stones, thereby creating custom-made cuts.
At the end of the day, when purchasing an amethyst piece of jewelry, you should simply choose the type of cut that you like the most.