The ancient Greeks associated amethyst
with Bacchus, the greek god of wine. Purple is another color long since associated with royalty, and the British Crown
Jewels contain some fine examples of amethyst.  Russia used to be the main source for amethyst until new deposits were discovered in South America. Color ranges from
pale lilac to a rich purple, many consider African amethyst with its royal purple to reddish overtones to be the gem's finest
color.
Amethyst is a member of the
Quartz family. Most people associate amethyst with the color purple , however some amethyst is heat treated to change
the color to yellow thereby producing citrine or green quartz (sometimes referred to as green amethyst). Heat treating is
usually undetectable and does not affect the stability of the stone. Amethyst jewelry became very popular during the later half of the 19 century.  Another member of the quartz variety is Ametrine, this takes it name from the fact that it is a striking mixture of both amethyst
and yellow citrine.
Amethyst/Ametrine are usually faceted as a
mixed, or step cut. to show of the beauty of the stone. It is common for the stones to have inclusions which can take the
form of tiger stripes, feathers or thumb prints.
Care of your amethyst jewelry  Amethyst is routinely heat treated, so steam cleaning is not recommended. Ultrasonic cleaning is usually safe, but the best
method for cleaning stones is to wash with warm soapy water.
It
is quite a tough stone but nevertheless abrupt temperature change can fracture the stone, or alter the color by causing fading. Chemicals that can damage amethyst are hydrofluoric acid, alkalies, and ammonium
flouride. Birthstone History and
Lore The birthstone for February, associated with the Star Sign Aquarius (Jan
20 - Feb 19). Amethyst symbolizes Healing, Peace, Happiness, Love. Amethyst has long since been considered as a
spiritual stone, thought to calm fears, raise hopes, and enhance thoughts of spirituality since it has no negative
side effects.  For a feeling of calm wear amethyst so that it is touching the skin. Crystal Energies: Receptive, Element: Water
Amethyst has been used for centuries to help combat stress, and in love spells,
it was is also believed to sharpen the mind and enhance mental powers. (Photo courtesy of Eric Hunt)
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