Amethysts Gem Stones Part Three
This is the last of a three part series on Amethysts Gem Stones
How to Shop for Amethysts
When you are shopping on line or at your local jewelery there are some vital points to keep in mind when buying amethyst gem stones.
Pick a reputable jewelry or dealer from which to buy your gemstones. Do they have a contact able phone number and address?
Do they have a returns policy so you can return the stone and get your deposit back (if you paid one) if the stone is not up to scratch?
Do the staff have experience with gemstones, particularly amethysts?
Look at the stone all around it. The deeper the color the more rare the stone. Ask if the stone has been treated in any way. Amethysts are often irradiated or treated with heat or dyed and colored. These treatments don’t particularly affect the value of the stone but it is part of knowing exactly what you are buying.
Check the stone has no flaws or scratches and has perfect clarity.
Turn the stone around in your hand and check the cut of the stone. If possible compare several amethysts side by side.
If the stone is in a setting, ensure the setting is strong and sufficient to hold the stone without it moving. Noting is worst that finding a stone is missing from as ring, for example, because the setting is loose.
If the stone is a particularly large one and a deep purple it would be wise to have the stone checked by a independent gemological laboratory and a certificate to indicate its qualities and value issued.
One last note: Be aware that “Rose de France” is one of the names applied to pale amethysts and used in antique jewelry.
This was the last in a series of articles about Amethyst Gem Stones