Derived from the Greek ‘amethustos’, which means ‘not drunk’, Amethyst is mythologically associated with Dionysus (Bacchus to the Romans), the Greek god of wine, and was once fashioned into talismans and goblets to prevent intoxication. Cryptocrystalline (small crystal) Quartz gemstones include, Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, and Onyx. Some other popular macrocrystalline quartzes are Citrine, Rose Quartz, and Tiger’s Eye. Experienced lapidaries carefully orientate each crystal to maximize its colorful brilliance, maintaining a high-polish/luster, as well as a good overall appearance (outline, profile and proportions).Ĭolored by trace amounts of iron, Amethyst is a variety of macrocrystalline (large crystal) Quartz that comes in pastel roses to deep purples. Moroccan Amethysts’ unique beauty is accentuated by optimal lapidary and an eye-clean clarity. Maintaining a high ethical standard and social responsibility, many of the lapidaries were previously unskilled, unemployed women who were provided training and a profession. Moroccan Amethyst are faceted at a dedicated lapidary located in the famous Indian gem city of Jaipur. Moroccan Amethyst also displays an attractive color change from purple in sunlight (candescent), to pink in candlelight (incandescent). Caused by microscopic hematite needle inclusions, this gemological feature is specific to Moroccan Amethyst. They also display blue flashes, similar to some Brazilian and Zambian Amethyst, as well as unique cranberry red flashes. Although you’ll sometimes see ‘Siberian’ used to describe intensely colored Amethyst from any locale, this is technically incorrect. Moroccan Amethyst has an even, velvety purple with a medium saturation and tone, reminiscent of the now historic Siberian Amethyst. Regardless of the cut, look for an even color and good brilliance. As it’s popular with both lapidaries and jewelers, you’ll find more fanciful shapes and cuts of Amethyst than you will for many other gemstones. Amethyst crystals occur with reasonably few inclusions, so the standard is eye-clean, the highest quality clarity grade for colored gemstones as determined by the world’s leading gemological laboratories. The most valuable Amethysts are medium to dark toned, transparent, and pure violet with no shading toward red or blue, although blue or red flashes are desirable and highly coveted. Color is Amethyst’s most important consideration, with the deeper shades commanding higher prices.
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