GEM TALK ON AMETHYST - BIRTHSTONE FOR FEBRUARY

When shopping for amethyst, you must consider the following:

1. COLOR – Amethyst ranges from very light lilac to red-purple, brown-purple or dark blue-purple. Look for a strong saturation but avoid very dark tones because they do not let enough light into the stone. A vibrantly colored, but transparent amethyst will offer the best sparkle.  Remember ‘color zoning’ is not preferred – which means you do not want to get amethyst jewelry in which the gems appears to have more than 1 color in it.
2. CLARITY – Amethysts are expected to be of eye-clean clarity, especially those from Brazil.  Red hued amethyst from Africa may have some inclusions.
3. CUT – it’s your preferred choice. Amethysts are readily available and can be found in many fancy shapes & designer cuts.
4. SIZE/CARAT – Amethyst are found abundantly as large, clear crystals, especially in Brazil, therefore its carat price does not rise drastically as the gem gets bigger. It’s the perfect gemstone for large, showstopping jewelry pieces at a very affordable price.

Amethyst belong to the quartz family & rank 7 on the Mohs scale, thus making it a durable stone to use in jewelry. 

1. Store each piece of amethyst jewelry separately in a soft cloth & away from other jewelry in order to avoid them from getting scratched
2. They are best cleaned with lukewarm water with mild soap or detergent. Just light brush it with a soft toothbrush, rinse and wipe. I recommend doing this at the table as your jewelry can slip from your hands over the sink.
3. You should protect your Amethyst from knocks
4. They are heat sensitive & can be discolored if exposed to heat, usually turning yellow.
5. You should not sunbathe with them & do not use steam cleaners for amethyst jewelry