The Amethyst
The Drunkenness Of Violet…
Amethyst is a quartz (silica) ranging from parma to dark purple. Its color is due to iron.
When heated to around 400°C, its color changes to yellow.
This is why we find Ametrines, a stone that is both purple and yellow.
Cut Bolivian Ametrine
A STRONG SYMBOLIC SINCE ANTIQUITY
The word comes from the ancient Greek a-methoustos which is the negation of “to be drunk”. The Greeks thought that its color was close to that of red wine cut with water.
The Romans drank their wine in amethyst cups to avoid drunkenness.
Nowadays, it is considered by Catholics as the religious stone par excellence, which is why it could be observed on the episcopal rings of bishops until the beginning of the 21st century. Their dresses are still purple today.
Episcopal ring, yellow gold and amethyst.
DEPOSITS
The massive exploitation of amethyst only began in the 20th century. Once considered very rare, it is now much more common.
Amethyst crystals are found in geodes, among basalt rocks several meters deep.
The main deposits are in Latin America (Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico) and Madagascar.
amethyst geode
JEWELERY
There are several jewels of large houses adorned with amethyst.
Ring White gold, diamonds, amethyst, Poiray
Necklace, rose gold, amethyst, Dior
Brooch, yellow gold, diamonds, emeralds, amethyst, Harry Winston
If you are interested in amethyst, do not hesitate to discover what Les Pierres de Julie offers in store…
We are also available for any free expertise of your amethyst jewelry, for this you can send an email with your photos to contact@lespierresdejulie.com.
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