Fantastic Finds Info

Amethyst is a naturally occurring and unique form of quartz that’s well-renowned for its purplish color and striking beauty. The name derives from the Greek word methustos, the word for “intoxicated.” It was believed in some ancient societies that amethyst could protect against drunkenness. The mistaken belief was so ingrained that people would wear amethyst jewelry while drinking alcoholic beverages, or drink from cups lined with the ore in the mistaken belief that the amethyst would keep them from becoming intoxicated.

The colors most commonly associated with amethyst range from a light violet to a deep and intense purple. Depending on the particular chemical makeup of the ore the color can vary greatly. In some cases amethyst may also exhibit a secondary hue in the colors red and blue. Amethyst rings and jewelry date as far back as the ancient Egyptians but still remain popular today for their unique and attractive coloring.

White gold is an alloy of gold containing at least one other metal giving it a lighter appearance. Common metals in white gold include nickel and palladium.  Like gold, white gold purity is measured in carats. Adding these additional metals to the gold allows it to be used for different purposes than regular gold. White gold mixed with nickel is typically harder and more durable, and is used in rings and pins. White gold mixed with palladium makes for a softer metal good for setting gemstones, such as white gold amethyst rings. White gold gemstone necklaces are also very popular.

White gold is usually lined with a thin layer of another metal, typically rhodium.  This gives it its the shine needed, since white gold itself tends to have a duller sheen.

The amethyst is a  common gemstone, which means it is very good for making jewelry. Many different kinds of jewelry use it for its notable purple color. Its color is unequaled.   Even other, more expensive purple gemstones are often compared to the color and beauty of amethyst.   Although amethyst is usually a deep purple color, it can and does have a wide range of purple shades.  The deeper the purple color, the more valuable it is.

Throughout history, amethyst has also has been used in many different ways.  The word amethyst actually comes from the Greek “a” (not) + “methustos” (intoxicated), from ancient Greek times when people believed amethyst would prevent drunkenness- wine goblets were often made out of amethyst for this reason. Also, medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets because then it was believed amethysts could heal people and keep them cool-headed.

If it were not for its widespread availability, amethyst would be very expensive   Amethyst can form as “druzes” that are crystalline crusts that only show the pointed terminations, or they can occur as long prismatic crystals that have a six sided pyramid at either end.  Amethyst is popular, as a mineral specimen,  for its color and nice crystal shapes that produce a handsome, purple, sparkling gemstones

Amethyst rings, as well as pendants and earrings, are perfect for summer or fall.  Purple has always been considered the color of royalty.  It is also the birthstone for February.  We have unique amethyst rings, pendants and earrings on our website.  More are added every week.  You can add them to your “royal” collection at inexpensive prices by visiting www.fantasticfindesenterprises.com.  By the way do you know what “ametrine” is???  Stay tuned!