Amethyst: meaning, origin and how to wear it

With its luminous purple, amethyst is probably the most recognisable natural stone. It has been worn as jewellery since Antiquity, and it is still one of the most popular today. Here is the essential: where it comes from, what tradition associates with it, how to recognise it, wear it and take care of it.

What is amethyst?

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, like rose quartz or rock crystal. Its purple colour comes from traces of iron in the crystal. Depending on where it is mined, it ranges from very pale lilac to deep violet, often with lighter areas and small inclusions: that is what makes each stone unique.

It is found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia and Madagascar, among other places. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, it is tough enough to be worn every day.

Where does its name come from?

The word comes from the Greek amethystos, “not drunk”. In Antiquity, people believed it protected against drunkenness, and drinking cups were sometimes carved from the stone. It is an old belief, not a real property, but it shows how long this stone has fascinated people.

What does amethyst symbolise?

In traditions such as crystal healing, amethyst is traditionally associated with calm, soothing and clarity of mind. It is often the stone people choose for a busy period, or as a quiet reminder to take the time to slow down.

These meanings are symbols handed down by tradition: they never replace medical advice or treatment. Many people simply wear amethyst for what it evokes, and for its colour.

How to recognise natural amethyst

• Its colour is not perfectly even: you can see shades, lighter or darker areas.
• It often contains small inclusions: veils, fine lines, dots.
• It feels cool to the touch at first, like most stones.

A purple that is too regular, without the slightest variation, can be a sign of glass or a dyed stone. In our jewellery, every amethyst is natural: its shade varies from one piece to another.

How to wear amethyst

Close to your heart as a necklace, or on your wrist as a bead bracelet: both are made for everyday wear. Purple goes easily with white, beige, grey or sage green.

• The Orbe amethyst necklace: a 16 mm sphere on an adjustable braided cord.
• The Halo amethyst bracelet: 8 mm beads, in 17, 19 or 21 cm.
• Together they make our Serenity duo, with a discount applied automatically in your cart: see the duo offers.

Caring for your amethyst

Amethyst can fade if it stays in direct sunlight for a long time: store it away from direct light. Take your jewellery off for the shower, swimming and sport, avoid perfume and creams, and wipe the stone with a soft, dry cloth. All our tips are gathered in the article How to care for natural stone jewellery.

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