Amethyst Beads

Amethyst beads are made of a mineral scientifically known as silicon oxide quartz. Amethyst is abundant in comparison with other gemstones of equal beauty. That fact is what makes it affordable. Significant amethyst sources include Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, Argentina, Canada, and South Africa. Amethyst is valued in jewelry making for its light reflecting transparency, hardness and color. The depth of color in amethyst is indicative of its age, the older being darker in color.

The astrological signs of amethyst are Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius, and Capricorn. In Western cultures, amethyst is the symbolic gemstone for the 17th wedding anniversary. It is the birthstone for the month of February. In Tibet, amethyst is considered to be sacred to Buddha, and it is therefore one of the commonly used gemstone beads in rosaries. The Greek word "amethystos" means "not drunken," and wine goblets were once carved from it to prevent drunkeness. Although rooted in mythology, the gemstone still symbolizes sobriety.

Amethyst gemstone beads come in opaque to transparent light lavender to deep purple. They usually have some milky inclusions. Light amethyst is also called "Rose de France." Cape amethyst is a translucent, rather than transparent, milky light lavender kind of amethyst. Amethyst is an essential element in everyone's jewelry supplies as amethyst gemstone beads offer beautiful color from a durable stone.

common treatments: often heat treated

special care: avoid prolonged exposure to strong heat or light

hardness: 7