The purple variety of quartz that has captivated mankind for generations, Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February.

Taking its name from the Greek "amethystos" meaning "a remedy against drunkeness" - a benefit long ascribed to the gemstone, Amethyst is also associated in early Greek mythology with Bacchus - the god of wine - due to its wine-like colourings. Believed to keep its wearer clear headed and quick-witted in battle and business affairs, Amethyst can be manufactured in a lab, as well as mined.

From Africa To Arizona

With Russia a major source of natural amethyst until the 19th century when large deposits were discovered in Brazil, Amethyst is now commonly found in Africa (Zambia's Kariba mine is one of the largest amethyst producers in the world), South America - with Brazil still a a major supplier, especially in its southernmost state Rio Grande Do Sul (though Amethyst mined here tends to have a lighter colour than those found elsewhere) - and just outside Phoenix, Arizona. The Four Peaks amethyst mine is located high in the most rugged part of the Mazatzal Mountains. A remote location, hot summer temperatures, and a lack of water and power at the mine make for challenging conditions. Yet this jagged, arid, rattlesnake-infested terrain produces some very fine dark purple and purplish red amethyst crystals.

Another prominent source of amethyst is the Anahí mine in Bolivia. Hidden in the Pantanal wetlands, the Anahí mine is shrouded in fascinating lore. Discovered by a Spanish conquistador in the 1600s, given to him as dowry when he married Anahí (a princess from the Ayoreo tribe), forgotten for three centuries, and rediscovered in the 1960s, The Anahí mine is also famous in gem circles as the source of the unusual bicolored amethyst-citrine crystals called ametrine.

Specifications

• Mineral: Quartz
• Chemistry: SiO₂
• Color: Purple
• Refractive Index: 1.544 to 1.553
• Birefringence: 0.009
• Specific Gravity: 2.66
• Mohs Hardness: 7

Also given as a gift for a 6th wedding anniversary, at W.Bruford we hold in stock at our Cornfield Road, Eastbourne store, a stunning selection of amethyst jewellery perfect for those February birthdays. Often complemented by diamonds, for a little extra sparkle, if you are looking for an amethyst pendant, pair of amethyst earrings or an amethyst ring to mark any special occasion, look no further than us here at W.Bruford.

View the collection HERE or visit us in-store today.

Information Taken From The GIA (Gemological Institute of America)