Amethyst is a variety of quartz. Though, unlike other quartz gemstones, amethyst has been primarily used as a decorative stone and in making jewelery as far back as ancient Egypt.
The name of the crystal is derived from the word "methustos" meaning intoxicated. The prefix "a-" meaning "not", translates the word to "not intoxicated" or "not drunk". The ancients used to carry the stone in hopes it will stop them from becoming drunk or that it would cure their drunkenness. This belief probably stemmed from the myth of the titan Rhea giving an amethyst to the god of wine and madness Dionysus to protect him.
Amethyst is mined all over the world. Deposits have been found throughout South and North America, Asia and Africa. Due to how widespread quartz as a mineral is, amethysts are also widely available in varying quantities. One of the largest deposits of amethysts is in Zambia. The crystal is also extensively mined in Brazil, Russia and Korea.
Tibetan Buddhist monks use amethysts to make prayer beads. The beads are used during prayer and meditation to help the monks concentrate as the stone is seen as calming to the mind. In the past amethyst and other types of quartz, specifically clear quartz have been used by Buddhists to heal and diagnose diseases.
Amethyst is mainly believed to have metaphysical properties connected to bringing peace and restful sleep. Many believe that amethyst can also assist with meditation and the visualization of our goals. Additionally, the stone is believed to have the power to aid in lucid dreaming.
Amethyst is considered the birthstone of the month of February.
It is said St. Valentine wore an amethyst intaglio ring with Cupid's face carved into the stone. Some believe that this led to the stone representing pure, chaste love.
Amethyst was once considered to be one of the cardinal gemstones up until the 1700s. The cardinal gems are the most valuable stones such as sapphires, rubies and emeralds.
This listing includes one 8 Strand necklace per order*
Gemstone: Natural Amethyst Quartz
Color: Medium Light Purple
Transparency: Transparent
Total carat weight: Approx 780 cts
Stone Size (mm): 7x5-12x10mm
Cut: Polished Bead
Shape: Oval
Length: 18-22 inches
SKU: 6143159
Color: 100% Natural
***All gemstone information guaranteed by our staff GIA Graduate Gemologist.
We are wholesalers of only the highest quality natural precious and semi-precious gemstones. We have a full disclosure policy regarding any treatments and durability concerns. Questions about an item? Don't hesitate to send us a note; we respond within the day!
SPECIAL REQUESTS:
Have a special request in mind like drilling, polishing, or re-cutting? Please contact us before placing your order and we will do our best to accommodate any order! Once purchased, your item will be processed and then shipped. We are located in the heart of New York's Diamond District and have access to hundreds of jewelers, lapidaries, and jewelry technicians.
Please note that the quantity listed can be expanded or modified upon request if possible. Feel free to inquire about other sizes and shapes as well!
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If you have your eye on something but are not ready to purchase yet, send us a note and we will put your item on hold for up to one week.
We offer friendly layaway for items over $100! Work out the best layaway plan with one of our shop members (we are always available by conversation), and your order will ship upon receipt of the last payment.
SHIPPING:
We ship within one business day, excluding orders with special requests. Please send us a note prior to purchasing if you require international shipping.
This listing includes one 8 Strand necklace per order*
