Amethyst Cathedral

An Amethyst is a violet or purple variety of quartz. Amethysts are often used as ornaments and it is believed that this stone prevents the owner from being intoxicated. Amethysts are the birthstone for those born in the month of February. Ancient Egyptians used Amethysts as gemstones. Amethyst beads have been found in Anglo-Saxon graves in England. The color of the Amethyst was associated with the presence of manganese in it, in the mid 20th century. When exposed to heat Amethyst becomes yellow. Many descriptive terms such as 'Rose De France' etc, have been coined to describe the color of the amethyst. The most sought after and expensive color of the Amethyst is deep purple with hints of red. Amethysts have been found in Brazil, Siberia, Zambia etc. Amethyst Cathedrals essentially are geodes. Geodes are generally, rock cavities with internal crystal formations. Amethyst cathedrals come in many shapes and sizes. They are either sliced vertically or horizontally. You would also come across a matched pair of Amethyst Cathedrals. The deeper the purple color of the Amethyst Cathedral, the better the grade. The height, the color of the amethyst, and the depth of the Amethyst Cathedral are important while buying an Amethyst Cathedral. The Amethyst Cathedral looks very attractive and can be used as tabletops or show pieces etc. Many mineral collectors also collect Amethyst Cathedrals. Thus, Amethysts have both an aesthetic as well as functional appeal.