Alexandru

Medalion din argint cu piatra semipretioasa ametist
Piesa unicat
Dimensiuni: diametrul este de 3,1 cm

Amethyst is one of the most precious and valuable stones belonging to the quartz group of minerals. It is recognized as the official birthstone for the month of February. Amethyst belongs to the macrocrystalline branch of quartz and owes its violet/purple color to iron and aluminum impurities. Without such coloring agents, amethyst would simply be transparent, ordinary colorless quartz. Like other varieties of macrocrystalline quartz, amethyst has transparent to translucent clarity and a vitreous luster.

In artificial light, amethyst does not display its best color. Amethyst looks best in daylight; more precisely, slightly after sunrise or just before sunset when the light is soft and warm. Amethyst is distinguished by its violet-purple colors. The best specimens should have a deep purple color and good saturation with minimal color zoning.

Since purple is considered to be one of the royal colors, amethyst has a historical importance as an insignia of power. Fine amethysts are featured in the British Crown Jewels and they were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and Egyptian royalty. Amethyst also holds a high place in the ranks of the Christian church and was referred to as „the stone of bishops”. The Greek word „amethystos” translates into „not drunken” and it was often worn as an amulet to protect against intoxication. Since amethyst was considered an antidote against drunkenness, many wine goblets were carved from amethyst stone. Still to this day, violet-purple amethyst is a symbol of sobriety.

Amethyst Gemstone and Jewelry Care and Cleaning
Amethyst can easily be cleaned with warm water and a mild soap. Wipe down amethyst using a soft cloth or toothbrush. Amethyst is quartz and although it is relatively hard and durable, there are a number of other gemstones capable of easily scratching amethyst. Therefore, take caution and do not place other harder gems near amethyst when storing, cleaning or wearing amethyst jewelry. As with most other colored stones, do not use harsh household chemicals when cleaning amethyst gemstone jewelry. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, because heat can cause permanent damage to the gemstone. When storing amethyst, always store jewelry inside a fabric-lined box or wrap it in a soft cloth. Amethyst should be stored separately from other stones, whether of whether or not they are harder or softer.