Renowned for its splendorous hue, the amethyst has long been considered one of nature’s most prized gemstones alongside diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. Once reserved only for royalties, today this stunning February birthstone is easily accessible to everyone and continues to be revered for its spectacular purple brilliance.
But is amethyst a durable gem?
The amethyst has a rating of 7 to 7.5 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means it’s a considerably durable stone.
All jewels, however, are susceptible to wear and tear. The same holds true for amethysts as well. If you do not take good care of them, their natural beauty and brilliance can diminish over time. So, if you plan to bring home amethyst jewelry, then remember that taking special precautions will help you retain its beauty for years to come.
How should I care for my amethyst jewelry?
This need not be a daunting task. Simply keep the following points in mind and you should be good to go.
- Storage Matters – Keeping different types of gemstones together can cause friction, which may lead to surface abrasions or scratches. So try to store your amethyst jewelry in a silk or velvet-lined box or wrap it in a soft cloth. Store separately from other gemstones in a cool environment.
Keep it Aside – Wearing any kind of fine jewelry while exercising, performing household chores, swimming or participating in strenuous activities is never a good idea. By doing so, you may put the gemstone at risk of random blows, cracks, discoloration and even breakage.
- Avoid Heat – Almost all amethysts present in the market today have been artificially treated to effectively enhance their color and improve the overall clarity. This makes them sensitive to abrupt increase in temperature, which may even lead to internal fractures. Even the sun’s UV rays can affect the properties of an amethyst responsible for its purple hue. Constant exposure to harsh natural and artificial light for a long period of time may result in loss of color and fading.
- Protect from Chemicals – Hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride and alkaline solutions, most of which are found in household cleaners can severely damage the amethyst. Even perfumes, hand sanitizers, and hairsprays must be kept away from this stone. Swimming pool water, which is full of chloride, will also slowly erode the finish and polish of the gem. So make sure to protect your amethyst jewelry from all these elements.
- Professional Help – If you’re unsure about cleaning your amethyst jewelry at home using DIY methods, then make sure to visit a professional at least once a year. Apart from getting the piece cleaned in the safest way possible, they will also check for scratches, help you with re-polishing and fix any loose settings (if required). After all, a stitch in time saves nine.
Parting Note
A gemstone fit for the royals, the amethyst will infuse an element of luxe into any attire. Keep the above points in mind and you’re sure to have a gem that continues to look brand new.
Also read – Which is the Most Secure Setting for a Gemstone?
