With its enchanting purple hues and rich history, amethyst is one of the most recognisable and beloved gemstones. From ancient symbolism to Georgian and Victorian jewellery, amethyst has remained a timeless favourite across cultures and centuries.
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is the violet variety of quartz, prized for its vibrant colour and relative durability. Its name derives from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated,” reflecting the ancient belief that the stone could ward off drunkenness. Today, amethyst is associated with calm, clarity, and protection—qualities that have helped it maintain popularity in both fine and antique jewellery.
Gemstone Characteristics
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
- Toughness: Fair to good
- Lustre: Vitreous
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Colour: Ranges from pale lilac to deep royal purple
Common Cutting Styles
Amethyst is often cut into classic round or oval faceted shapes, with antique jewellery favouring step cuts, such as emerald or cushion cuts. Deeper tones are typically cut to enhance richness, while lighter stones may be cut more shallowly to intensify colour.
Use in Antique and Vintage Jewellery
Amethyst has appeared in jewellery for millennia, but it was especially fashionable during the Georgian and Victorian eras. Georgian rings often featured amethyst in foil-backed settings to enhance its glow, while Victorian designs paired it with pearls, garnets, and enamel in sentimental and mourning jewellery. In the early 20th century, amethyst was popular in both Edwardian and Art Deco designs, prized for its striking hue and affordability.
Historical and Symbolic Significance
Once as valuable as rubies and sapphires, amethyst’s discovery in Brazil in the 19th century made it more widely accessible—though it never lost its prestige. Historically worn by royalty and clergy, it has symbolised sobriety, wisdom, and spiritual strength across cultures. Amethyst is also the birthstone for February and a traditional gift for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries.
Is Amethyst Suitable for Everyday Wear?
With a hardness of 7, amethyst is reasonably durable for rings and earrings, especially if set in protective mountings. However, it can be scratched by harder stones like sapphires or diamonds, and may fade if exposed to prolonged sunlight. Antique amethyst rings should be worn with care and stored properly when not in use.