Notable here is the once highly popular Siberian amethyst. In terms of the level of colour, the presence of inclusions, and other variables that determine gemstone quality are not made (or formed) equally. However, not all amethysts, like most varieties of gemstones are made equal. In addition to these popular gemstone hot spots, even countries like the United States have entered the amethyst business, with regions in Arizona being notable sources. In more recent times gem rich nations like Ceylon (Sri Lanka), entering the fray. Since then the supply of amethyst from this part of the world, with countries like Colombia, Brazil driving the supply of this particular gemstone. Up until the 1800s amethysts were quite rare, and they were perceived in value to other top precious stones in the world. Which in turn will affect the quality of amethyst. Natural amethysts which receive their colour from the presence of iron and other trace elements may exhibit colour zoning: a phenomenon in gemstones where colour is unevenly distributed within the gemstone. Amethyst that turns green or yellow (known as prasiolite) are not technically amethysts. The prevalence of green and even yellow shaded quartz has led some to conclude that amethysts can be found in colour varieties besides purple. However, during these heating processes, the colour of the amethyst will vary in accordance with the level of heat. Thus at times, amethysts are subjected to heat treatment to improve their natural colour. Certain parts of the gemstone (in its rough uncut form) having a higher concentration at the top, with the strength of the hue weakening towards the lower end. Owing to the external source of the gemstone’s colour, the colour (purple) that is present in the gemstone is not always uniform. The purple colour of amethyst is caused by trace amounts of iron, which are present as mineral inclusions within the structure of the quartz. When it comes to amethysts there has been some confusion in the industry when it comes to classifying them according to their colour. In addition to their relative rarity, the quality of a gemstone's colour is what distinguishes the good from the rest. Colour in AmethystsĬolour is a key variable in gemstones. Amethysts as the violet variety of quartz, the macrocrystalline (large) variety, are known for their relatively high level of hardness, hence it is valued for their durability when it comes to their use as gemstones. Owing to their distinct development amethysts manifest certain characteristics. As the liquid solidifies over time, it results in the formation of crystals of amethyst. As the hot molten lava cools, it becomes this harden with the prevalence of cavities, within these outcrops or exposed part of the hardened rock, which become filled with a mineral-rich liquid containing traces of iron. Like most organically formed gemstones its origins begins within the Earth’s surface underground, where gas cavities form bubble-like shapes within volcanic lava. The development of amethyst crystals in nature is an interesting one. Our attempt here is to provide a wider perspective on the nature and significance of this gemstone.īrazil, Russia (Siberia), Sri Lanka, ZambiaĪ starting point for understanding the meaning of amethysts is to look into their gemological development story. The area where much attention has been directed to, in the study of the meaning of amethysts. And depending on the social and cultural context of the gemstone’s use, amethyst’s are also recognized for their mystical qualities. To preface what is to come in this post: we will be looking at the key features of this quartz gemstone, one that is, owing to its semiprecious character, and attractive violet colour, has come to command greater demand in the world of fine jewellery. Whilst this is understandable, however, a serious study of the meaning of amethyst must entail a more comprehensive study of the stone, one that engages a deeper understanding of the chemical, historical, cultural character of the stone. Any discussion of the meaning of the amethyst gemstone often tends to delve into the engagement of the metaphysical character of the stone. Amethyst is a semi-precious gemstone and is the most popular variety of quartz crystals that are valued for a variety of reasons: from its famous and characteristic purple to the many spiritual and healing powers that are attached to it.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |