Legandary Amethyst
Amethyst is a great burst of energy during grey February days. Throughout history, it has been believed to lift the spirit and clear the mind, which serves as a perfect remedy for those long stretches of the winter blues. Its regal hue has long made it a favourite gem among royalty. The British Crown Jewels boast the magnificent Kent Amethyst Suite—a collection of brooches, earrings, and necklaces passed down through generations. Queen Elizabeth II often would adorn herself with these violet treasures, a striking detail to her iconic ensembles.
Beyond British shores, Catherine the Great of Russia had a well-known passion for amethysts. She incorporated the gem into everything from necklaces to elaborate tiaras, and legend has it she believed the stones could enhance her intelligence and wit. Whilst ancient Greeks believed amethyst protected from intoxication the empress believed wearing the stone would sharpen her mind. We cannot be sure if the gems helped her in her accession to power and rule of the empire but they undoubtedly amplified her imperial grandeur. Empress Joséphine’s Amethyst Parure, gifted by Napoleon, is another legendary set. This lavish collection—featuring a tiara, necklace, earrings, and bracelets—dripped with regal purple stones. For Napoleon, such extravagant jewels were not only tokens of affection but powerful symbols of empire and dominance.
Scientifically, amethyst is a variety of quartz, whose mesmerising colour is a result of iron content and natural irradiation over millions of years. It ranks 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable enough for everyday jewellery. Shades of amethyst range from the soft lilac of "Rose de France" to the deepest, velvety purples of Siberian amethysts that captivate every admirer.
Amethyst is mined across the globe, with each region offering unique variations in colour and quality. Brazil is the largest producer, famous for its massive geodes filled with deep purple crystals, particularly from the Rio Grande do Sul region. Nearby, Uruguay yields some of the darkest and most vibrant amethysts, prized for their intense hue and exceptional clarity. In Zambia, amethysts display a distinctive reddish-purple tone, considered among the most valuable due to their rich colour and transparency. Madagascar provides a range of shades, from soft lilac to deep violet, known for their clarity and striking colour zoning. Historically, Russia’s Siberian amethysts—deep purple with flashes of red and blue—were the most coveted, though they are now rare. In the United States, notable sources include the Four Peaks Mine in Arizona, which produces gems with a unique purple-red hue. Smaller deposits in South Korea and Mexico yield lighter but beautifully clear stones, while each region’s amethyst reflects the earth’s geological artistry.
On a physical level, Amethyst is associated with healthy cell regeneration, encouraging soothing sleep and rest, and promoting hormonal balance. As Amethyst helps balance metabolism and positively serves the endocrine system, the body finds its inner harmony and regulates cortisol production. Along with all of this, the purplish hue of Amethyst also ensures that the body, mind and soul remain cleansed and detoxified. For those who struggle with a foggy head or migraines, then Amethyst can also help clear those clouds away. Finally, for those who struggle to get restful nights, having Amethyst close during these wind-down hours will bring plentiful rest and regenerate your energy.
In the metaphysical realm, amethyst is treasured for its calming and protective qualities. It is said to soothe the mind, heighten intuition, and deepen spiritual awareness. Some even place amethyst beneath their pillows to chase away insomnia and invite peaceful dreams. While science may remain sceptical, many continue to believe in the stone’s ability to bring tranquillity and clarity—a beacon of warmth and light in the heart of winter.