Stone guide · Amethyst
The calm purple of the quartz family. Amethyst runs from soft lilac to deep violet, and the Greeks believed it kept a clear head. Whatever you believe, it looks wonderful next to silver.
What it is
Amethyst is quartz, colored by traces of iron and natural radiation deep underground. The same chemistry gives different depths of purple, from pale lavender to rich grape. Major sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia and Bolivia. With a hardness of about 7, it handles everyday wear well.
The Greek name
The word amethyst comes from the ancient Greek amethystos, meaning not intoxicated. The Greeks associated the stone with a clear head, and it was often used for wine cups and rings. That link to clarity is still the first thing people mention about amethyst today. It is a tradition and a story, not a medical claim.
Bracelets
Small beads look refined, larger beads look bold. Start slim with a 4mm, or go everyday with 8 and 10mm.
Minimal Silver · 4mmShop
Minimal Gold-PlatedShop
Minimal Sterling · 4mmShop
Stacking · 8mmShopEveryday · 10mmShop
With Rose Quartz · 12mmShop
Necklaces
A bead necklace in amethyst adds color near the face and layers easily.
What to pair it with
- Onyx: dark and matte, makes the purple look deeper.
- Rose quartz and aquamarine: a soft pastel mix.
- Silver: a cool contrast that makes amethyst glow.
- Gold plating: warms the stone and gives a classic look.
Keeping the color
- Keep it out of long direct sunlight and strong heat, which can fade the color over time.
- Wipe with a soft damp cloth, then dry it.
- Avoid perfume, lotions and cleaning products.
- Take it off for heavy work, sport and swimming.
Questions people ask
Is amethyst a real gemstone?
Yes. It is natural quartz. Real stones vary slightly in shade from bead to bead.
Can I wear amethyst every day?
Yes. At about 7 on the Mohs scale it is durable. Just keep it away from chemicals and long sun exposure.
Why is it called amethyst?
The name comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning not intoxicated.
Does amethyst fade?
It can lose color after long exposure to strong sunlight or heat, so store it out of direct light.
Is amethyst for men or women?
Both. We make it from slim 4mm beads to bold 12mm ones.