Introduction
The amethyst, a captivating variety of quartz prized for its violet hues, holds a distinguished place in history and modern jewelry. Traditionally associated with clarity, sobriety, and royalty, it has been a beloved gemstone for millennia. In the contemporary marketplace, it is prominently featured as the birthstone for February, offering a wide range of jewelry options for consumers. This article explores the amethyst's journey from ancient lore to its current status, examining its geological origins, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and its specific availability through retailers like Boscov's, based on the provided materials.
History and Lore
The history of the amethyst is deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations, where it was valued not only for its beauty but also for its perceived protective and purifying properties. The name "amethyst" derives from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not intoxicated." According to ancient Greek mythology, the stone was believed to prevent drunkenness. The god Dionysus, enraged by an insult, vowed to kill the first person he met. A young maiden named Amethyst, on her way to pay tribute to the goddess Diana, was transformed into a statue of pure quartz to save her. Dionysus, remorseful, poured wine over the statue, staining the quartz purple and creating the first amethyst. This legend cemented the stone's association with sobriety and clarity of mind.
Beyond Greece, the amethyst was highly esteemed in other ancient cultures. In ancient Egypt, it was used in jewelry and amulets, believed to possess protective qualities. The Romans, too, valued the stone, associating it with the god Bacchus and using it to ward off the effects of alcohol. Throughout the Middle Ages, the amethyst was a symbol of piety and royalty, often worn by bishops and high-ranking clergy, and set into the crowns and regalia of monarchs. Its deep purple color, historically difficult to produce artificially, made it a symbol of power and luxury.
The amethyst's journey to becoming a modern birthstone is more recent. The concept of birthstones has evolved over centuries, with modern lists largely standardized in the 20th century. The amethyst was officially designated as the birthstone for February in the traditional birthstone list adopted by the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) in 1912. This list, which also includes the amethyst in the modern and alternative birthstone lists, has been periodically updated, but the amethyst has remained a consistent choice for February, celebrated for its rich color and accessible price point.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a variety of crystalline quartz, with the chemical formula SiO₂. Its distinctive purple coloration is the result of trace amounts of iron and natural irradiation. When quartz crystals form in geodes or veins within volcanic or other rocks, iron impurities can become incorporated into the crystal lattice. Subsequent exposure to natural gamma radiation from surrounding rocks causes these iron atoms to change their oxidation state, creating the color centers that absorb green and yellow light, reflecting the violet and purple hues we see.
The formation of amethyst typically occurs in cavities within igneous rocks, such as basalt. As silica-rich solutions fill these cavities, they slowly cool, allowing large, well-formed crystals to develop. The most famous sources of amethyst historically were in Russia, particularly in the Ural Mountains. These Siberian amethysts were known for their deep, saturated purple color with flashes of red and blue, often graded as "Siberian" color. However, these mines are largely depleted today.
Modern sources of amethyst are more widespread. Significant deposits are found in Brazil, which is currently the world's largest producer. Brazilian amethyst, often from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, can produce very large crystals, sometimes weighing several hundred pounds. These crystals are frequently found in geodes that can be several feet in diameter. Other notable sources include Uruguay, which produces amethyst with a darker, more intense purple color, often with a smoky undertone. African countries like Zambia and Namibia also yield amethyst, with Zambian stones sometimes exhibiting a reddish-purple hue. In the United States, amethyst is found in Arizona, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina, though these deposits are generally smaller in scale.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst is a member of the quartz family, and its properties are consistent with this group. Understanding these properties is crucial for gemologists and consumers alike, as they determine the stone's durability, appearance, and care requirements.
- Hardness and Durability: Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for most types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. However, it is not as hard as corundum (sapphire and ruby, hardness 9) or diamond (hardness 10), so it can be scratched by harder materials and should be stored separately.
- Crystal System: Amethyst crystallizes in the hexagonal system, often forming as six-sided prisms terminated by a pyramid. This structure is visible in raw crystals and influences the way the stone is cut to maximize its brilliance and color.
- Refractive Index and Specific Gravity: As a variety of quartz, amethyst has a refractive index ranging from approximately 1.544 to 1.553 and a specific gravity of about 2.65. These optical properties contribute to its brilliance when properly cut and polished.
- Color and Clarity: The color of amethyst can vary from pale lilac to deep violet. The most valued hues are a medium to deep purple with strong saturation and even color distribution. The stone is typically eye-clean, meaning inclusions are not usually visible to the naked eye. However, some specimens may contain inclusions such as needles, mineral crystals, or liquid-filled cavities. Heat treatment is commonly used to lighten the color of overly dark amethyst or to transform it into citrine (yellow quartz) or prasiolite (green quartz), a practice that should be disclosed by sellers.
- Cut and Carat Weight: Amethyst is cut into a wide variety of shapes and sizes to suit different jewelry designs. Because it is relatively affordable, large amethysts are accessible, making it popular for statement pieces. Faceted cuts are common to enhance its brilliance, while cabochon cuts are used for stones with unique inclusions or for a softer look.
Comparative Gemological Data for Amethyst
| Property | Amethyst (Quartz) | Diamond (for reference) | Sapphire (for reference) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ | C | Al₂O₃ |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal | Cubic | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7 | 10 | 9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.544 - 1.553 | 2.417 | 1.762 - 1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.65 | 3.52 | 4.00 |
| Typical Inclusions | Needles, mineral crystals, cavities | Various, often unique "inclusions" | Silk (rutile needles), crystals |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The amethyst has accumulated a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs throughout its long history. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they remain a significant part of the stone's cultural identity and appeal to many consumers.
Historically, the primary symbolic association of amethyst was with sobriety and clarity of mind. This stems from its ancient Greek name and mythology. It was believed to ward off intoxication, both from alcohol and from negative thoughts or emotions. This made it a popular stone for monks and religious figures, who saw it as a tool for maintaining spiritual clarity and focus.
Beyond its anti-intoxicating properties, amethyst has been linked to peace, calm, and tranquility. It is often called a "calming stone," thought to soothe anxiety, stress, and emotional turmoil. In crystal healing practices, amethyst is associated with the crown chakra, which is connected to spirituality, higher consciousness, and enlightenment. Placing amethyst in a room or wearing it as jewelry is believed by some to create a peaceful environment and promote a meditative state.
Another key symbolism is protection. Ancient warriors carried amethyst into battle, believing it would protect them from harm and keep them level-headed. In medieval Europe, it was used to protect against witchcraft and evil spirits. This protective quality is often extended to modern interpretations, where it is believed to shield the wearer from negative energies and psychic attack.
As the birthstone for February, amethyst is also associated with the zodiac sign Pisces. It is believed to enhance the intuitive and compassionate nature of Pisces while helping to ground their often dreamy disposition. For those born in February, wearing amethyst is said to bring good fortune, wisdom, and courage.
It is important to note that while these metaphysical beliefs are widely held in certain communities, they are not part of established gemological science. They represent cultural and personal interpretations of the stone's significance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of amethyst jewelry. Its physical properties dictate specific cleaning and storage methods to prevent damage.
Cleaning: Amethyst can be safely cleaned with warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, which can damage the stone. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated amethyst, but caution is advised if the stone has fractures or inclusions, as vibrations could cause damage. Steam cleaning is not recommended, as high heat can cause thermal shock and potentially alter the stone's color. For amethyst that has been heat-treated, it is best to use only mild cleaning methods to avoid any potential fading.
Storage: Due to its hardness of 7, amethyst can scratch or be scratched by harder gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. It should be stored separately from other jewelry, ideally in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box with individual compartments. Keeping it away from prolonged exposure to strong sunlight or heat is also advisable, as extreme conditions can cause the color to fade over time.
Handling: When wearing amethyst jewelry, it is best to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals found in cosmetics, hairsprays, and perfumes. Putting jewelry on after applying these products can help prevent buildup and potential damage. While amethyst is durable enough for everyday wear, it is wise to remove it during activities that could subject it to hard blows or abrasions, such as gardening, heavy cleaning, or sports.
Conclusion
The amethyst is a gemstone of remarkable versatility, bridging ancient mythology and modern commerce. From its legendary origins in Greek lore to its status as the official birthstone for February, it has consistently symbolized clarity, protection, and tranquility. Geologically, it is a stunning variety of quartz, formed through specific conditions of iron impurities and natural irradiation, with major sources now located in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa. Its gemological properties—specifically a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, a hexagonal crystal system, and a characteristic purple color—make it both beautiful and practical for jewelry. While its metaphysical beliefs add a layer of cultural significance, its scientific attributes ensure its enduring appeal in the gemstone market. Retailers like Boscov's, with their focus on birthstone jewelry, make this historically rich gemstone accessible to a broad audience, allowing the legacy of the amethyst to continue in the form of rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets worn by millions today.