|
Few gemstones are as immediately associated with royalty, majesty and the right to rule as is the amethyst. Since purple was the color most difficult and costly to produce anciently, it came to designate sovereignty and station in almost all civilizations. The royal scepter used by English regents is topped by an amethyst globe.
Named for the Greek mythological maiden, Amethyst, it has legendary beginnings. Ancient tales say Cleopatra wore an amethyst signet ring as did St. Valentine - his engraved with the figure of Cupid. Amethyst was one of the gems on the Hebrew High Priest's breastplate, and from the Middle Ages to the present, it is called the gemstone of Catholic bishops.
Amethyst was a special favorite of Catherine the Great of Russia, and very fine amethysts are included in the British Crown Jewels.
Admirers of amethyst enjoy a spectrum of hues from a deep, rich purple to the flirtatious lavender named Rose de France. Your Hyde Park Jewelers professional will assist you in selecting a shade of amethyst that proclaims you rule the world.
World Sources
Brazil, Namibia, Uruguay, Zambia, Argentina & Australia
Enrichments
Routinely subjected to heat as a normal part of the processing to improve the color
Care
Ultrasonic cleaning is usually safe; avoid steam cleaning, abrupt changes in temperature, heat, intense sunlight & strong chemicals
Repair
Remove from settings before applying heat
« back to Birthstones
|