Description & Provenance

Amethyst is the famous variation of quartz that gains its purple coloration from an impurity of iron (Fe). Thanks to its relative abundance on the planet, its attractiveness, and its potential for variety (often dependent on its place of origin), it has been loved since antiquity among numerous cultures all around the globe. In fact, in the Old World, amethyst was among the cardinal gems, a group of five stones considered precious above all others. The cardinal gems also included diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Many also know of amethyst because it is the official birthstone of February. This is, in part, due to its association with Saint Valentine who is said to have worn an amethyst ring engraved with a depiction of Cupid. Thus, it has been a token of pure, true, faithful, emotional love, and believed to carry with it healing and protective powers. Its beauty and symbolism made it a favorite to exchange among lovers to strengthen their commitment.

While amethyst is an abundant mineral, only a handful of localities produce distinct variants of the species, of which Veracruz, Mexico is one. This lustrous specimen is an exceptional example of its kind, exhibiting all of the characteristics for which this locality is known—the crystals are slender and elongated, and their purple coloration is most concentrated towards the terminations. The crystals have formed on an opaque, white matrix (host-rock) that provides great contrast and accentuates the exceptionally rich coloring of this particular example. The specimen is also well-balanced, its pristine crystals have dispersed evenly and aesthetically with great crystal isolation across their matrix. Beyond being an attractive display piece, this specimen is an excellent example of its famous locale.

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