Amethyst

Item Description

Amethysts are obviously well-known for virtually everybody, but people take the color for granted. If you eliminate Amethyst from the gem world, there are suddenly VERY few purple stones for collectors and jewelers, all that's left in terms of common gems are Spinel, Sapphire, Fluorite and Tanzanite, and it's not easy to find true purple examples of any of those stones. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek "a-methystos" meaning "not drunken,". Wine goblets were often carved from it, and the gemstone still symbolizes sobriety to this day. Traditionally, the color purple has been a symbol for royalty and Amethyst was often used for monarchs and leaders throughout history. It was, considered to be the stone of bishops, who still often wear amethyst rings. In Tibet, amethyst is considered to be sacred to Buddha and rosaries are often fashioned from it. Amethyst would be very expensive, were not for its widespread availability, as it is one of the few purple gems out there. This attractive "Checkerboard Trillion" cut gem is nearly eye clean in clarity and has a lovely medium purple color. A great stone for a pendant or to add to your gemstone collection. Valued at $501.80 high retail.