Amethyst

Color, clarity and weight are the decisive factors affecting the price of tumbled amethyst. This purple version of quartz is considered to be its most valuable color. The price of amethyst with average quality, around 2.5 cm in size, is usually $1-$10/piece, but the price of the best Amethyst specimens can be as high as thousands of dollars. In addition to the color, clarity, and weight of the amethyst crystal cluster, the shape of the crystal cluster and the integrity of the crystal are also important factors that affect the pricing. The price of amethyst clusters is usually between $1-$80/piece, and a few beautifully shaped, complete crystals, high-clarity giant amethyst clusters can even sell for tens of thousands of dollars.

Amethyst is believed to be a powerful stone that can provide healing for the spiritual and emotional body. Its positive energy forces remove negative energy to potentially provide for better overall health. Keep it in the bedroom to induce more restful sleep. It can be used in the home to encourage harmony and unity among those who dwell within.

Here's a simple guide summarizing key factors affecting the price of amethyst:

1.Color: The ideal color for amethyst ranges from light, pinkish-purple to a deep grape hue. High-quality stones have even color without visible zoning. "Siberian quality" - deep purple with red and blue flashes - is most valued.

2.Clarity: As eye-clean amethyst is abundant, aim for high clarity grades. Any inclusions could significantly reduce the stone's value since they're more noticeable, especially in lighter stones.

3.Cut: Poorly cut amethyst, even with good color, isn't highly valued. Prefer a symmetrical cut with correct proportions. Though commonly seen with brilliant cuts, amethyst can be faceted into many different designs.

4.Carat: While amethyst is available in all sizes, fine quality large crystals are rare. Price per carat rises gradually but tends to decrease for stones above 25 carats. Small, intensely colored stones are generally preferred over larger ones with color banding.

Here's a summary of additional considerations when buying amethyst for jewelry:

1.Synthetic amethyst: Lab-grown synthetic amethyst is common and less costly than natural one. Buyers should ensure the gem's authenticity, especially for larger stones, as they are sometimes sold as natural amethyst.

2.amethyst Treatments: Dark-toned amethyst may undergo heat treatments to lighten them, which is permanent and stable. More heating may change the stone's color entirely into citrine or green, red, brown, or colorless quartz varieties.

3."Green amethyst": The term "green amethyst" is incorrect. Amethyst turned green due to heating should be referred to as prasiolite. Most prasiolite gems are created through heat treatment, and they can fade in sunlight, therefore should be stored away from light.

As always, ensure purchases are made from trustworthy jewelers who certify the gemstone's authenticity.

Amethyst is one of the most popular forms of quartz for ornamental use. It is considered a semiprecious stone. In antique times, amethyst was one of the most-favored minerals for making intaglio engraved gems. Today, it remains very popular as an ornamental crystal, faceted stone, and lapidary stone – especially in jewelry making.

According to Greek mythology, a nymph named Amethystos was transformed into a stone that is now known as amethyst. Greeks commonly crushed the stone and put it in the wine to prevent intoxication. Known as a symbol of Christ, but also with wealth and power, it was favored exclusively by royalty for a long time. Amethyst is the birthstone of February.