Amethyst
Semi-precious stone
Amethyst is purple quartz. Available in large sizes and across a very wide range of purples, it is the most accessible coloured stone for a spectacular piece of jewellery.
Gemmological facts
- Species
- Quartz
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7
- Family
- Semi-precious stone
- Signature colour
- Purple
- Mineral species: Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale: robust, but should be protected from scratches.
- Colours: From pale lilac to deep purple, sometimes with reddish reflections; the natural pairing with citrine is called ametrine.
Main origins
Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul)
The world's main source, large crystals.
Uruguay
Highly saturated purples, often the most sought after.
Zambia
Deep purples with bluish nuances.
Madagascar
Light, luminous hues.
Best-suited cuts
Cushion
Concentrates the colour at the centre of the stone.
Oval
A classic silhouette for rings and pendants.
Round brilliant
Maximum brilliance on lighter purples.
Emerald (step cut)
Pays tribute to the limpidity of quartz.
Pear
Elegant as a pendant or drop earrings.
Jewellery and care
Large cocktail ring, pendant, earrings, bracelet: the ideal stone for generous volume without a precious-stone budget.
Lukewarm soapy water. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and heat, which can fade the purple.