Natural Amethyst:
Value
Amethyst is a type of crystalline silicon dioxide. The purple hue of amethyst varies from a light shade known as “Rose de France” to a deep violet purple, sometimes displaying flashes of blue and red, referred to as Siberian Amethyst.
Most Expensive Amethyst
Siberian amethyst is the most valuable variety and is traditionally used in fine jewelry. The finest amethysts are eye-clean, meaning they are free of visible inclusions when not magnified. The price of amethyst in high-end jewelry is primarily determined by the gem’s size and color saturation.
Artful Bracelets Amethyst
Amethyst remains a budget-friendly gemstone. For instance, at Artful Bracelets, a half-carat round amethyst set in 14K white gold costs approximately $3.50, while a similar ring featuring a two-carat gem is priced around $530. This illustrates the affordability of a natural amethyst engagement ring.
For a more luxurious option, a two-carat center amethyst surrounded by a diamond halo in a 14K white gold ring will cost a bit over $2,100, making it a stunning statement piece.
Interested in something fashionable? All of our amethyst rings come in 14K rose gold. Special order rings can feature amethysts as large as 3.05 carats, priced up to $3,000. With a variety of carat sizes, metals, and shapes, there’s something fabulous for every budget.
Natural Amethyst Properties
As mentioned earlier, amethyst is a cost-effective gemstone, but this has not always been the case. Historically, amethyst jewelry was reserved for the affluent and influential and has been used in adornments since ancient times.
Amethyst Mining Deposits
Today, amethyst is relatively common and is predominantly mined in South America (Uruguay, Brazil), Canada, Africa (Morocco, Madagascar, Zambia), India, China, and Russia. In the past, there were deposits in the Alps that are now largely depleted. When these deposits existed, the mines in the Americas and Africa were unknown, making amethyst rarer and more expensive centuries ago.
On the Mohs Scale: Hardness Grade
Amethyst has a Mohs hardness of 7, indicating its relative durability for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it is softer than many other gemstones used in fine jewelry, so it should be protected from scratches in a jewelry box. If you have a natural amethyst engagement ring, expect to have it polished after a few years due to everyday wear.
Color
Many wonder how a natural amethyst obtains its color. Over time, gemologists and chemists determined that there are two key factors:
- Iron content in the quartz crystal is crucial.
- The right conditions to irradiate the iron, producing the purple color, are necessary. Ideally, the iron content and radiation are consistent throughout the natural amethyst, allowing for faceted stones or cabochons with minimal color zoning.
- Most of the amethyst used in jewelry is untreated, but the darkest and lightest crystals can undergo heat treatment to enhance their shades. This can be done at lower temperatures (400-600C) to lighten almost black amethyst to the Siberian shade or darken Rose de France amethyst.
- Alternatively, high-temperature treatment can transform amethyst into yellow citrine or green prasiolite with applied pressure to prevent cracking. These color changes are permanent.
Fine-quality treated stones receive the AAA designation, while untreated ones may be deemed AAAA. At Artful Bracelets, we utilize AAA treated stones in our jewelry selections.
Lab Created Amethyst
Though commercially less significant, lab-created amethysts possess characteristics similar to natural ones. The primary distinctions are:
1. Lab-grown amethysts tend to exhibit consistent color without natural imperfections because they are produced under an accelerated growth process, eliminating environmental contaminants.
Identifying lab-made vs. natural amethysts requires expertise, but reputable jewelers are obliged to disclose whether a piece is lab-grown or natural, including its quality grade.
2. Heat-treated amethysts are guaranteed to be natural because treatments address natural flaws, which synthetics don’t have. Treatment is a safe and lasting method to enhance gems used in most jewelry.
Amethyst Buying Tips
Considering an amethyst ring purchase for yourself or a loved one? Keep these tips in mind:
Budget:
Although amethyst is inexpensive, it’s essential to determine your spending limit. This prevents feeling overwhelmed by the numerous choices, even among statement rings.
Gemstone Shape:
Regardless of your budget, knowing your or the recipient’s preferences before shopping is beneficial. Different shapes can complement finger lengths variably.
Size and Color:
The size and darkness of the chosen stone will influence the price.she’ll love. Don’t be hesitant to purchase a Rose de France ring if she has a fondness for pastel purple. However, if she isn’t a fan of statement jewelry, opting for a smaller stone might be wiser, even if your budget allows for a larger one.
Getting Started
Collaborate with our gemologists to discover the ideal piece of amethyst jewelry for her. They are readily available to help sift through choices and even assist in designing a different or custom piece.
FAQs
Which amethyst is the most expensive?
The Siberian amethyst, known for its deep purple hue with red and blue flashes, is the priciest type of amethyst. It is most often used in fine jewelry and is valued based on size and color saturation.
Where is amethyst found?
Amethyst can be found in regions such as South America (Uruguay, Brazil), Canada, Africa (Morocco, Madagascar, Zambia), India, China, and Russia.
Is amethyst a durable gemstone?
Amethyst is fairly durable with a rating of 7 on the Mohs scale. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care and love.
How does amethyst get its color?
Amethyst, a purple variety of quartz, derives its color from the presence of iron. The stone is often subjected to irradiation and heat treatments to enhance its color.
What is the difference between lab-created amethyst and natural amethyst?
Though lab-created amethyst is chemically and optically identical to natural amethyst, there are key differences. Lab-grown amethyst showcases a more uniform color as it is produced in a controlled environment and does not undergo heat treatment. In contrast, natural amethysts are typically heat-treated, lack uniform color, and display natural flaws.
