
Check out my favorite faceted amethyst

A fine amethyst is prized for its rich, saturated purple color, which should be vivid yet balanced— neither too dark to appear blackish nor too light to feel washed out. The most desirable stones display a deep reddish- purple or royal purple hue with even color distribution and excellent clarity. When viewed under light, premium amethyst shows strong brilliance and minimal inclusions, allowing the internal glow of the crystal to shine through cleanly. Some top- quality specimens exhibit subtle color zoning, often with darker cores and lighter edges, which can enhance their character when cut correctly. Historically, the finest amethyst has come from deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Brazilian mines, particularly in Rio Grande do Sul, produce large geodes filled with richly colored crystals that are highly valued by collectors. Uruguayan amethyst is renowned for its exceptionally deep, grape-purple coloration, often considered among the most striking in the world. Zambian material is known for its bluish-purple tones and outstanding clarity, making it popular in fine jewelry. Whether sourced from South America or Africa, the hallmark of a high-grade amethyst remains the same: a strong, luminous purple with excellent transparency, crisp crystal form, (if not faceted) and an overall presence that conveys both beauty and depth.
