Amethyst is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Its deep purple color has captured the hearts of collectors, jewelers, and gem enthusiasts alike. But did you know that not all amethysts are created equal? While most amethyst crystals are found in shades of purple, there are rare colors within the amethyst spectrum that are much more sought-after.
This article will explore the rarest colors of amethyst, their unique characteristics, and how they affect the value and desirability of this beloved gemstone.
What Is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is known for its rich purple hue. It is formed when iron and aluminum are combined in the crystal, which gives it its unique color. Amethyst has been prized for centuries, with people across cultures associating the stone with various properties like spiritual healing and protection.
The Range of Amethyst Colors
Amethyst is found in a range of purples, from light lavender to deep violet. The color of amethyst depends on factors like the amount of iron within the stone and how it has been exposed to radiation during its formation. However, not all purple amethysts are the same. There are several distinct shades within the purple range, and some are far rarer than others.
Common Amethyst Colors
Amethyst crystals can range from pale lilac to dark violet. Some common shades include:
Light Purple: This color is the most commonly found. It has a soft, pastel-like appearance.
Lavender: A delicate, lighter purple with a hint of blue.
Dark Purple: This deep violet shade is rich and intense, often regarded as the most desirable color for amethyst.
Medium Purple: A balanced tone, not too light and not too dark.
While these colors are common, they are not as rare or as valuable as the unique shades that will be discussed next.
The Rare Colors of Amethyst
Now, let’s take a look at some of the rarest and most highly sought-after colors of amethyst.
1. Siberian Amethyst
Siberian amethyst is known for its deep, rich purple color with flashes of red and blue. It is considered one of the rarest forms of amethyst due to its exceptional color and scarcity. Siberian amethyst comes from the Ural Mountains in Russia and is highly valued by collectors and gem enthusiasts. The deep, intense color of Siberian amethyst is what sets it apart from other types of amethyst.
The red and blue flashes that are sometimes visible within the crystal are due to the presence of iron and the way the crystal interacts with light. These flashes of color give Siberian amethyst a vibrant, multi-dimensional appearance. Because of its rarity, Siberian amethyst is often priced higher than other types.
2. Rose De France Amethyst
Rose de France amethyst is a rare, light purple variety of amethyst that has a pale, almost pinkish hue. It is one of the most beautiful and delicate types of amethyst and is prized for its soft, pastel color. Rose de France amethyst is found primarily in South America, particularly in Brazil, and is much rarer than the more common purple varieties.
This light pinkish-purple color makes Rose de France amethyst stand out in the world of gemstones. It is often used in jewelry pieces where a subtle, feminine touch is desired. The rarity of Rose de France amethyst contributes to its higher value compared to other amethysts.
3. Ametrine
Ametrine is a unique gemstone that is a combination of both amethyst and citrine. It forms when amethyst crystals are exposed to different conditions during their formation. The result is a stunning gemstone that features both purple and yellow sections within the same crystal. Ametrine is relatively rare because it requires very specific geological conditions to form.
While the purple portion of ametrine comes from amethyst, the yellow portion is derived from citrine, another variety of quartz. Ametrine has become increasingly popular for its striking appearance and the fact that it showcases two distinct colors in one gemstone. Ametrine is typically found in the Anahi mine in Bolivia, and its rarity makes it a valuable gemstone.
4. Green Amethyst (Prasiolite)
Green amethyst, also known as prasiolite, is another rare variation of amethyst. Unlike the purple hues typically associated with amethyst, prasiolite is a light green stone that is sometimes mistaken for a different gemstone altogether. Natural green amethyst is extremely rare, and most green amethyst stones on the market are heat-treated amethysts.
The green color in prasiolite is the result of amethyst being heated to a high temperature. When natural amethysts are heated, their color can shift from purple to green. While green amethyst is not as highly valued as traditional purple amethyst, its unique color still makes it a sought-after gemstone.
5. Elestial Amethyst
Elestial amethyst is a rare form of amethyst that features a unique, jagged, and layered appearance. It is found in only a few places around the world, and its distinctive crystalline structure makes it highly prized by collectors. Elestial amethyst typically has a darker, more intense purple color and is often seen with natural inclusions that add to its mystique.
The formation of elestial amethyst is thought to be the result of specific growth conditions that cause the crystal to develop in layers. These layers give the gemstone a distinct, almost mystical look, and it is considered to have spiritual significance in many cultures.
How Does Color Affect the Value of Amethyst?
The color of an amethyst is one of the most important factors in determining its value. As mentioned earlier, amethysts can range from light lavender to deep violet, and some of the rarer colors are much more highly valued.
Deep Purple Amethysts: These amethysts are the most highly prized because they display the most intense, vivid color. Dark purple amethysts, especially those with flashes of red or blue, are considered the best in terms of color and value.
Light Purple Amethysts: While still beautiful, light purple amethysts are generally less valuable than dark purple ones. However, they are still widely used in jewelry and are appreciated for their soft, pastel hues.
Siberian Amethyst: The deep purple color with flashes of red and blue makes Siberian amethyst one of the most valuable types. Its rarity and stunning color contribute to its high market price.
Rose De France Amethyst: This pale, pinkish-purple hue is rare, and while not as highly valued as deep purple amethyst, it is still a prized gemstone.
Ametrine and Green Amethyst: These stones are unique in their own right, but they are typically valued less than traditional purple amethyst. Ametrine, with its mix of purple and yellow, is more expensive than prasiolite, the green amethyst, due to its rarity.
Where Can You Find Rare Amethyst?
Rare amethysts can be found in different parts of the world. Some regions are particularly famous for producing specific types of amethyst, while others are known for their general supply of high-quality gemstones.
Siberian Amethyst
The Ural Mountains in Russia are home to some of the finest amethysts in the world, especially Siberian amethyst. These amethysts are famous for their rich purple color and are often found in larger crystals.
Rose De France Amethyst
Rose de France amethyst is typically found in Brazil, where it is mined in limited quantities. This delicate gemstone is often exported to various countries for use in high-end jewelry pieces.
Ametrine
The best-quality ametrine comes from the Anahi mine in Bolivia, which is known for producing some of the world’s finest examples of this unique stone.
Green Amethyst (Prasiolite)
Green amethyst, or prasiolite, is mostly found in Brazil and is typically the result of heat treatment of regular amethyst. Natural green amethyst is very rare, but treated prasiolite is widely available.
Elestial Amethyst
Elestial amethyst is found in several locations around the world, including Brazil, the United States, and Africa. Its rare, jagged shape makes it particularly desirable among collectors.
Conclusion
Amethyst is a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and a wide range of colors. While most amethysts are purple, some rare varieties feature stunning colors like pink, green, and even combinations of purple and yellow. Whether you’re a collector or simply a lover of gemstones, understanding the different colors of amethyst can help you appreciate the full beauty of this remarkable stone.
Related topic:
- How Much Does Pink Amethyst Cost?
- Who Should Not Wear Amethyst Stone?
- How to Choose a Good Amethyst?
