Originally published and thoughtfully updated for 2026.
Few gemstones carry the mystique, history, and sheer beauty of amethyst. Combining the passion of red and the calm of blue, purple conveys balance, clarity, and a hint of mystery — qualities that have captivated royalty, clergy, collectors, and jewelry lovers for centuries.
Once considered equal in rarity and value to diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, amethyst was true crown-jewel material. That changed in the early 19th century when major deposits were discovered in Brazil. Increased supply made this magnificent gemstone more accessible — and we see that as a gift.
The stone itself hasn’t changed. If anything, today we have an even broader range of exquisite examples from which to choose. What was once reserved for royalty is now available to all who appreciate its regal beauty.
What Makes Amethyst So Special?
Amethyst Color: The Heart of Its Beauty
Amethyst is always purple — yet the range within that single color is extraordinary. Shades span from delicate lavender and blush-tinted lilac to deep, velvety violet. Some stones lean reddish purple; others reveal a cooler bluish tone.
Three factors determine quality:
-
Hue – the basic color (for example, reddish purple)
-
Tone – how light or dark the stone appears
-
Saturation – the intensity of the color (what Bob Argo calls its “juiciness”)
Traditionally, the most highly valued amethysts are medium to medium-dark in tone, richly saturated, and slightly reddish purple. That said, lighter pastel stones possess an airy elegance all their own — especially in larger gems and contemporary designs.
Examples of light, medium & dark amethyst shades, from A&L loose gem collection.
Amethyst Clarity
Fine amethysts typically display excellent clarity. Most quality stones on the jewelry market are eye-clean, meaning inclusions are not visible without magnification.
Distinguishing natural from lab-grown amethyst usually requires microscopic examination. Natural stones often display characteristic inclusions; lab-grown stones frequently appear very clean. Lab-grown amethyst can be useful in designs requiring many precisely matched small stones or beads.
Amethyst Hardness & Wearability
Ranking 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is durable enough for rings and everyday jewelry when properly cared for. It is also relatively easy to carve, lending itself beautifully to creative cuts, sculptural designs, and imaginative settings.
Fascinating Amethyst Facts
-
The name amethyst comes from the Greek amethustos, often translated as “not intoxicated.” Ancient Greeks believed it could prevent drunkenness and even drank from amethyst goblets.
-
It is the February birthstone, making it especially meaningful during Valentine’s season. Legend says St. Valentine wore a ring set with an amethyst carved with Cupid.
-
Amethyst crystals sometimes form inside hollow rock cavities, creating geodes — some so large a person can stand inside.
Amethyst carries deep spiritual and historical symbolism:
-
Associated with the tribe of Gad in biblical tradition
-
Connected to the Apostle Matthew
-
Traditionally used in bishops’ rings
-
Used in Buddhist prayer beads for meditation and calm
-
-
Amethyst is the most prized member of the quartz family. Its golden cousin is citrine. When the two occur naturally together and are properly cut, the result is ametrine, a striking bi-color gemstone found primarily in southeastern Bolivia.
Amethyst at Argo & Lehne
We are continually inspired by this versatile gemstone and its range of expression:
-
A fresh take on hoops featuring luminous pinkish-purple amethysts.
-
A charming pendant combining amethyst with citrine, garnet, and aquamarine.
-
A dramatic pagoda-inspired design showcasing a 28-carat cabochon amethyst accented with diamonds
-
A striking elongated oval amethyst with a modified brilliant crown and harlequin-patterned pavilion — an unusually gorgeous and distinctive cut
Amethyst can be regal, romantic, spiritual, playful, or bold — sometimes all at once.
We invite you to visit us and explore our collection in person, or browse our amethyst jewelry online.
