Tips for Buying Amethyst Jewelry
Consider the following when selecting an amethyst ring, earrings, or any other jewelry piece.
Dos
- Focus on color. Though amethyst is characteristically purple, its hue can vary. Aim for gems with a rich, deeply saturated purple color. Avoid stones that are so dark they lack their signature rose-colored internal flashes. Watch for zoning, where the color unevenly distributes with other hues. Fortunately, Amethyst is quite affordable, so you can find a vibrant gem within your budget.
- Choose a jeweler who respects your budget. While amethyst jewelry is abundant, selecting an experienced jeweler is crucial. They can help you find a high-quality amethyst within your financial range. You don’t need to seek only the top-tier stones. Often, an amethyst with minor imperfections, hidden by its cut, setting, or color, can be significantly less expensive and still stunning.
- Select an eye-clean Amethyst. Most Amethysts contain some imperfections as they form naturally within the earth. The key is recognizing noticeable versus unnoticeable flaws. Eye-clean stones have no visible inclusions to the naked eye, though a microscope may reveal some. These stones will appear flawless under normal viewing conditions, while gems with visible imperfections or pale coloring will see a reduced value.
Don’ts
- Avoid brown or bronze hues. Zoning, or the occurrence of lighter and darker areas, can detract from the stone’s appearance, especially when brown or bronze tints are visible from the top. To test for color zoning, view the stone against a white background and look for a vivid, evenly saturated purple.
- Don’t compromise on the cut. While gemstones are not graded as rigorously as diamonds, the cut is still vital. A well-cut amethyst will sparkle brilliantly, with light reflecting evenly regardless of the stone’s shape. Ensure that the facet patterns enhance the gem’s beauty without detracting from its light reflection.
- Consider a lab report if unsure. Synthetic Amethyst exists, and stones like scapolite and spinel can be mistaken for amethysts. To confirm your purchase is a natural amethyst, a lab report can be beneficial. Organizations like the GIA provide colored stone identification reports for gems like Amethyst.
Picking the Perfect Purple Amethyst
Amethyst jewelry is not only beautiful for February-born individuals but also for anyone seeking a vibrant, stylish accessory with significant meaning. Our list of dos and don’ts aims to help you make an informed decision and select the best gem for your jewelry.
FAQs
Which is the best color for an amethyst?
The best color for Amethyst is a deep purple with some reddish undertones. Dark purple is preferable to pale purple as long as the gem’s vibrancy isn’t compromised.
Is Amethyst an expensive gemstone?
Amethyst is generally affordable, but stones with superior color, clarity, and cut will be more expensive than lower-grade Amethyst.
What does Amethyst symbolize?
Amethyst commonly symbolizes healing, purification, and divine intuition. It is also linked to royalty.
Is amethyst jewelry sturdy enough for everyday wear?
Amethyst scores a seven on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably hard and suitable for everyday wear. Nevertheless, the gem can be prone to scratches and can fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
