Amethyst is a precious gemstone that belongs to the family of quartz. It is one of the most popular gemstones in the jewelry industry. In earlier times it was used to heal the wearer from intoxication or to prevent the effects of excessive drinking. Thus, it was named amethyst which is derived from the Greek language and translates to “not intoxicate” or “not drunken”. Most of the times when we talk about a traditional amethyst gemstone, we can only think of it as a purple colored gem. Surprisingly, if a purple colored amethyst comes in contact with a high degree of heat its color changes to green. And, that gives birth to a green amethyst. Most of these amethyst beads used in gemstone beads necklaces.
Usually, green amethyst is created artificially in a lab by heating the purple amethyst under high temperature till it changes its color to pale green. However, it has been noticed that quartz crystals can also turn into green color under naturally hot climatic conditions such as near volcanoes. Such green amethysts are found in the form of crystalline clusters on the California-Nevada border.
Technically, the actual name for a heated purple amethyst is “greened” amethyst, but, usually people refer to it as “green” amethyst. As amethyst gemstones are sensitive to heat they must be kept away from high temperature environments while in use. These stones generally start changing color at a temperature as low as 250 degrees. Therefore, it is always advisable to keep the purple amethyst away from heat in order to retain its color.
Green amethyst resembles precious green emerald. Its exotic green color and brilliant clarity gave it a high ranking amongst other gemstones of the same group. During the olden times, green amethysts were a symbol of affluence and power. Many historical princes and princesses have been seen wearing these beautiful gems as part of their ornaments. Although today, these stones are sometimes addressed as a poor man’s emerald as it gives the similar appeal as an emerald at a much cheaper price.
Everyday, several pieces of stunning jewelry are created using these bright and shinning gems such as necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets. They make a great and enchanting pair with white diamonds. The rarity of these green amethysts sometimes provokes jewelers to make their fake imitations. With a little research and knowledge one can easily distinguish between a real a green amethyst and its synthetic counterpart. The process of production of a green amethyst determines its price. If the gemstone has been formed naturally it would cost much higher than the one produced in a lab. However, in the end it certainly proves to be worth its price.