Amethyst Gemstone Guide: Meaning, Color, Value, and More

Amethyst is a beautiful purple variety of quartz, ranging in color from pale lilac to deep violet. This gemstone is the official birthstone of February.

The name Amethyst comes from the Greek word Amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.”

Its excellent hardness and affordability make it a popular choice for all kinds of jewelry.

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Contents

1. Amethyst Meaning
2. Amethyst Color
3. Value
4. Cut and Sizes
5. Clarity and Inclusions
6. Genesis and Origin
7. Enhancements and Synthetics
8. Myths and Legends
9. February Birthstone
10. Physical & Optical Properties

Amethyst Meaning

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The word Amethyst comes from the Greek “amethystos”, meaning “not intoxicated.” In ancient Greece, it was believed that this gemstone could protect its wearer from drunkenness. Its color was said to resemble watered-down wine, symbolizing moderation and balance.

Amethyst Color

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Amethyst gemstones are the gems most strongly associated with the color purple. Their hue can vary from pale lilac to deep violet, with undertones that may be reddish or bluish. Saturation can range from soft and muted to vivid and intense.

Amethysts often display color zoning—visible angular zones of lighter and darker shades within the same stone. This color variation is caused by iron and natural radiation creating color centers in the crystal.

The commercial name \"Rose de France\" refers to pale lilac amethysts, which are especially popular in jewelry.

Amethyst is also closely related to citrine. Ametrine, a naturally bi-colored gem, combines zones of purple amethyst and golden citrine in one crystal.

Amethyst Value

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Until the 18th century, amethyst was considered one of the most valuable gemstones, often ranked alongside ruby, emerald, and sapphire. Its value declined after large deposits were discovered, making it more accessible—but no less admired.

Unlike many gems, amethyst retains affordability even in large sizes. While carat weight influences price, color remains the most important factor.

The finest amethyst color is known as “Deep Siberian”: a rich, velvety purple with flashes of blue and red. These trade names refer to color intensity, not geographical origin.

Highly prized stones are a strong reddish-purple with no brownish tint or visible color zoning.

Amethyst: Cut and Sizes

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Amethyst gemstones are available in a wide variety of shapes and cuts. In addition to traditional styles like oval, round, and emerald cut, you'll also find unique fancy cuts tailored to customer preferences.

Historically, amethysts were treasured by royalty and can still be found in the British Crown Jewels and the Swedish Crown Collection.

Large amethyst crystals are also displayed in museums: the Texas Memorial Museum features a 250-pound geode, and the GIA Museum exhibits a crystal weighing 164 pounds.

Clarity and Inclusions

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Amethyst gemstones generally show visible inclusions. While some stones may appear eye-clean, it’s common to find natural internal features.

Typical inclusions in amethyst include:

• “Zebra stripes” – liquid feather inclusions that resemble stripes across the crystal, also known as “fingerprints.”
• Color zoning – angular zones of light and dark purple.
• Brazil law twinning – a unique twinning pattern visible under magnification.
• Two-phase and solid inclusions.

See our Inclusions Gallery

Genesis and Origin

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Genesis: Amethyst forms in volcanic igneous rocks, pegmatites, and geodes. It also occurs in secondary alluvial deposits.

Sources: Notable amethyst-producing countries include Afghanistan, Bolivia, Brazil, Myanmar (Burma), Canada, Cambodia, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mexico, Namibia, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, and the United States.

Enhancements and Synthetics

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Enhancements: Heating amethyst to approximately 450°C can turn its purple color to yellow-orange, producing citrine. This process is stable and permanent. The original color can sometimes be restored using X-ray radiation.

Synthetics: Many synthetic amethysts are present in the market. If typical synthetic inclusions are absent, they may be difficult to distinguish from natural stones without advanced testing.

Myths and Legends

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Amethyst has long been linked to sobriety, wisdom, and protection. In ancient Rome, people drank from amethyst cups to guard against drunkenness.

Christian bishops have worn amethyst rings symbolizing spiritual clarity. According to legend, the poet Belleau described the gem as a maiden transformed into stone by the goddess Diana, stained by Bacchus' remorseful wine.

Saint Valentine is also said to have worn an amethyst ring engraved with Cupid.

February Birthstone

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Amethyst is the birthstone of February, associated with Pisces, and traditionally given to celebrate the 6th wedding anniversary.

Learn more about Birthstones here.

Physical & Optical Properties of Amethyst

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Zebra stripes – liquid inclusions

Interference fringes

Biphasic Inclusions

Celebrate the Power of Purple

From ancient legends to modern elegance, amethyst is a gemstone with timeless appeal. Whether chosen for its symbolism or its stunning hue, each stone adds a regal touch to your jewelry collection.

Browse our curated collection of amethyst gemstones and discover the perfect gem for your next creation.

→ Shop Amethysts at MdMaya Gems