Amethyst Jewelry

One thing that has been known for a long time, on the other hand, is the fact that the amethyst changes its colour on being heated. Smoky stones are transformed at temperatures of as little as 250 degrees to a shining yellow to brownish-red, whilst clear ones, i.e. those with a high degree of transparency, become yellow or colourless at 400 degrees.

The fact that these stones can lose their colour makes it obvious that amethyst jewellery should not be worn while sunbathing, in a solarium or in a discotheque with black light. Obviously, this is quite different than lampwork beads where their unique qualities of glass do not alter in the sun. Sudden changes of temperature can also be harmful to the stone.

The deposits with the greatest economic significance are in various states in southern Brazil and in neighbouring Uruguay. The third major export country is Madagascar. On the Canadian side of Lake Superior in North America, there is a place named Amethyst Harbor. The violet quartz is found there in ample quantities, though rarely in gemstone quality.

Because it has a high hardness level (7), amethyst is suitable for use in jewelry. The transparent crystalline stone is often used in jewelry such as rings and necklaces, and some people believe that the color has soothing and healing properties. The crystals often grow quite large, allowing the stone to be used in large, elaborate settings of gold, silver, and other metals. The ornamental stone is also the birthstone for the month of February, and is often a treasured gift given by parents to their children born in this month.