Corolla Store Open Seasonally, April - October. Online Store Open All Year!

How Amethyst Became One of the Best Kept Royal Secrets

August 12, 2020

How Amethyst Became One of the Best Kept Royal Secrets

By Chelsea Reed

The regal violet colors of amethyst are sought after by both the experienced and new collector. Amethyst is the birthstone for February... the 33rd wedding anniversary stone... and a common semiprecious gemstone in today’s market. But what if we told you that the amethyst was once an extremely rare jewel? It was so rare, in fact, that only royalty were allowed to wear it!

And so begins the secret tale of how amethyst became a favorite gem among royal societies...

 

Amethyst Tumbled Stones 

An Exclusive Treasure from the Nile to Europe

It only takes one look at an amethyst to appreciate its striking beauty. Even in the Stone Age, people figured out how special it was. In ancient Egypt, amethyst was a personal adornment for the Pharaohs and their families. Important hieroglyphics carved at an abandoned Egyptian amethyst mine were discovered last year! Scientists are still researching, but it appears the mine was guarded by Egyptian soldiers while it was in service.

Amethyst’s rich purple color continued to be popular with the elite in Medieval European countries. Because purple is a rare color to produce in nature, it's often associated with royalty. It was against the law in England for any commoner to wear amethyst jewelry. Only the royal family and nobility were allowed! A large amethyst stone is set in the British Crown Jewels today, and amethyst was a favorite gemstone for King Edward VII’s wife to wear.

Amethyst’s exclusivity would change, however, with one remarkable discovery…

 

Amethyst Geodes for Sale

The Secret’s Out!

Amethyst’s rarity came to an end when vast deposits of the stone were discovered by settlers in 19th century Brazil. It’s accessible to everyone now, and its beautiful color continues to be popular. Modern European royals continue the tradition of wearing amethyst. French jeweler Cartier crafted an elaborate amethyst and turquoise necklace in 1947 for the famed Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson. And Queen Silvia of Sweden’s tiara is made with 15 large amethyst stones from the French Empress Josephine!

Would you like to own a piece of amethyst, crown gem of royalty? You'll feel like a king or queen with our unique amethyst specimens! They're available at Michael’s Gems and Glass in store or online at your convenience.

 


 

Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes online content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina.




Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Blog

Creating a Coastal Vibe with Michael's Gems and Glass
Creating a Coastal Vibe with Michael's Gems and Glass

May 18, 2024

Dreaming of a beachside retreat? Transform your home into a coastal paradise with Michael's Gems and Glass. In this blog post, we'll show you how to craft stunning coastal-inspired home decor using shimmering sea glass, gemstones, and sea shells. Discover simple DIY projects, from seashell and gemstone centerpieces to nautical-themed mosaic art, that bring the serene beauty of the ocean into your living space. Dive into the DIY world and make your home feel like a breezy seaside escape!

Continue Reading

A Day in the Life of a Mosasaur
A Day in the Life of a Mosasaur

August 31, 2020

The mosasaur is a fascinating creature. This ancient, warm-blooded, marine reptile once lurked the Earth’s primal oceans. While T-Rex dinosaurs ruled the land, mosasaurs dominated the sea. People herald them as the last of the “Great Marine Reptiles.”

Continue Reading

Terror of the Seas! The True Story About the Awesome Megalodon
Terror of the Seas! The True Story About the Awesome Megalodon

July 04, 2020

Hands down, the megalodon is the largest and toughest creature that ever lived. This prehistoric shark has captured the minds of people around the world. It’s even famous in Hollywood! In 2018, a popular movie came out called “The Meg.” This sci-fi thriller was all about the sheer might and terror of the megalodon if it were alive today. In real life, the megalodon is extinct and probably wouldn’t be that monstrous. But it’s still big - and just as awesome!

Continue Reading