OUR STONES
AMETHYST
Amethyst is one of the most recognizable gemstones in jewelry. It is admired for its purple hues, which can go from a light lilac to an intense and deep purple. It is a variety of the quartz mineral species and it commonly shows color zoning, which consists of angular zones of darker to lighter color. Throughout the years, it has acquired many different symbolism and meanings.
Amethyst has been known since antiquity and was particularly valued by ancient Greeks and Romans. Some Greek legends associated the gemstone with Dionysius, the god of wine and pleasure. It was believed that wearing amethysts prevented drunkenness, in fact, the stone’s name comes from the Greek word “amethystos” which means “not drunk”. This believe remains present to this day.
Throughout history, it has been used as royal and religious jewelry. English regalia was decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages as a symbol of royalty, and the clergy used it exclusively as a symbol for the deity of Christ. It was once considered equal in value to the sapphire, ruby and emerald, until the discovery of larger supplies of amethysts.
In the Old Testament history, amethyst was one of the stones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel. It is believed that Saint Valentine, a clergyman of the Roman Empire and the patron of love, wore a purple amethyst ring with an image of Cupid on it. The astrologer Camillo Leonardi wrote that amethyst quickens intelligence and eliminates negative thoughts.
They have a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale and they can be found in many places around the world. Some of the most famous are Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, South Africa and the United States. Each country produces stones with different intensities of purple. At Nayestones, we offer a pale shade of amethysts coming from Brazil. We also have Prasiolites, which are green amethysts that are created when certain amethysts are gently heat-treated, revealing a soft green tone.
Today, amethyst is associated with peace and healing, courage and bravery. It is a symbol of clarity and sobriety. It also happens to be the birthstone of those born in February, making it a beautiful gift. With its vivid color and durability, amethyst is a perfect option for your jewelry. After all, who wouldn’t want to have a stone that has so much meaning and history?
MADE IN ANTWERP
Our jewelry is entirely made in Antwerp, Belgium, by a team of experienced goldsmiths and artisans.
CERTIFICATE
All pieces will be carefully wrapped by our team, and sold with a certificate of authenticity.
FREE SHIPPING AND RETURNS
We offer worldwide secured delivery and returns, with no minimum purchase. Taxes and customs fees are included.
3 YEARS WARRANTY
A three-year guarantee is included with all Nayestones orders.