AMETHYST
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. It varies in colour from a magnificent deep purple to light violet, and from transparent to translucent. The colour is rarely uniform and is frequently distributed in patches or stripes with straight edges. It is a variety of the mineral quartz; other members of that mineral include rock crystal, smoky quartz, citrine, bloodstone, cornelian and banded agates.
It was understood in ancient times to be an antidote to poisoned or spiked drinks, it was prevalent in Victorian jewellery and always the stone of choice in bishops’
episcopal rings.
Amethyst is mined in many countries, Brazil in a major source and the highly prized deep rich purple stones mostly come from Uruguay. It has been found in very small amounts on Achill Island but unfortunately this material usually fades after exposure to light.
WORKSHOP NOTES.
Hardness: 7.
Toughness: Good
Heat: Avoid, some may fade
Acids: Avoid hydrofluoric
Ultrasonic: Usually safe
Steam: Risky
PADRAIC LAVIN FGA PJ DIP MIRV