Gorgeous orchid faceted Amethyst(1.28tcw, VS, Brazil) hand set on sterling silver earrings. February's traditional birthstone, pretty purple amethyst is the most valuable gemstone in the quartz group. Amethyst is also special because its crystal structure differs from the other crystal quartzes, even though it has the same hardness, moderate refraction, and weight. Amethyst's stratified construction creates varying color intensity and explains why there are only a select few large gem amethysts with evenly dispersed rich color, even with its abundance around the world. Whether in faceted stones, crystal specimens, polished pebbles, or beads, amethyst has enjoyed popularity in nearly every culture throughout its ancient history. Amethyst's existence has been known since ancient times. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians used amethysts in jewelry and household goods like bowls and cups. Even in ancient Mesopotamia, amethysts were engraved with royal and religious insignia and used as tools to imprint clay tablets. Amethyst has been symbolic of purity and royalty used in jewelry for hundreds of years. Amethyst has long played an important role in religion, as the stone in Christian bishops' rings and in rosaries.Please ask questions