Amethyst
Amethyst is a member of the mineral quartz family, which is the second most abundant material in the Earth’s crust. As it’s one of the most abundant materials in the earth’s crust, it’s found all over the world with abundant deposits in Brazil and Africa. That ubiquity makes amethyst one of the most popular and affordable gemstones on the market. The name derives from the Ancient Greek word “methustos”, which means “intoxicated”. Though its hues are intoxicating, it’s named such because ancient wearers believed amethyst could ward off drunkenness.
The color can range from a light, pinkish violet to a deep, reddish purple with depth swinging from transparent to translucent. Purple is its most commonly recognized color, though some varieties land on a green color, which is known as “prasiolite,” or “green amethyst.” The hardness is a 7 on the Mohs scale—meaning it won’t break by cleavage and is durable enough for use in rings, necklaces, and other types of jewelry. Amethyst is the birthstone for February and used celebrate the sixth and 17th wedding anniversaries.
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