Amethyst is a semiprecious stone, which used to be as expensive as ruby and emerald until the 19th century, when Brazil’s large deposits were discovered. The largest amethyst geode is 3 m (9 ft 10 in) long, 1.8 m (5 ft 10 in) wide, 2.2 m (7 ft 2 in) high and weighs 13 tonnes (28,660 lb). It is displayed in the Museum of Natural History in Shandong, China.

Since the crystals can be easily found in big structures, the value of amethyst is defined not only by carat weight, but primarily by the color. Amethyst’s colors range from lavender light to dark purple, with the transparent deep purple colors being the most highly regarded. “Deep Russian/Siberian” is the highest grade, exceptionally rare variety of deep purple, which was first found in the region of the Ural Mountains. Most amethyst will turn yellow or orange when heated producing citrine. The ones which turn leek-green are called prasiolite. In Bolivia, amethyst and citrine occur in the same crystal. The unique gems, called ametrine, are half purple and half yellow.

Brazil and Uruguay are among the most significant players in amethyst mining. In North America the stone is mined in many American states and Canadian locations. Amethyst is the official state gemstone of South Carolina. In Canada amethyst is the official gemstone of the province of Ontario. One of the largest global amethyst producers is Zambia in southern Africa with annual production of about 1000 tons. The largest opencast amethyst vein in the world is in Lower Austria. A lot of fine amethyst comes from Russia, especially from near Mursinka in the Ekaterinburg district.

Historically, fine amethyst used to be the stone of religious people and royalty. Tibetan monks associate it with Buddha and use amethyst beads for yoga malas. Apparently, when you wear an amethyst bracelet it encourages you to engage in positive introspection. In ancient Greece it was believed to prevent intoxication—amethystos means “not drunk” in ancient Greek. That is why wine goblets were often carved from it. Stunning purple colour and a large size make this gem a good choice for cocktail rings. Trendy girls adore this stone. Especially when it comes with a creative fantasy cut.

Because amethyst is relatively softer than other precious stones, cutters can make your dreams come true and provide you with unconventional tailor-made designs for amethyst not only in jewelry, but many other things such as vases, statues, pins, headdress, and even ornamental displays. Amethyst crystals are not only magically beautiful, but also useful, as they are often said to have healing properties and work as a natural stress reliever when coming into contact with skin.