Romans believed the amethyst would ward off the intoxicating powers
of Bacchus--the god of wine.
Amethyst was also thought to protect soldiers and
bring them victory. And, in the Middle Ages, only persons of noble birth were
allowed to wear them.
Amethyst is the
birthstone for February and the suggested
gift for the sixth wedding
anniversary. Amethyst is mined
primarily in Brazil and Zambia. Amethyst rates 6 1/2 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Enhancements: Although cutting is the most basic enhancement method necessary
to display the beauty of a
gemstone, there are many fascinating methods by which
man has demonstrated his ability to draw maximum color, luster, clarity and
brilliance from nature's earthbound treasures. A basic understanding of these
enhancement techniques will add to your appreciation of the beauty, durability
and value of the
gemstone jewelry you already own, or plan to purchase in the
future. The darker colors of
amethyst are rarely enhanced to perfect their
color.
Amethyst care: Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner
on
amethyst. Avoid sudden temperature
changes, steaming and contact with cosmetics, hairspray, perfume or household
chemicals. Your
amethyst jewelry may be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush or a
cloth with plain or soapy water.
Topaz:
The enduring symbol of love and affection, the topaz is believed to
bring the wearer friendship and ensure fidelity.
Blue topaz is mined in colors
of
pink,
blue, brown and colorless. Available in a wide array of
colors, topaz is the
birthstone for November and the suggested gift for the
twenty-third
anniversary.
Topaz rates 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Enhancements: Although cutting is the most basic enhancement method necessary
to display the beauty of a gemstone, there are many fascinating methods by which
man has demonstrated his ability to draw maximum color, luster, clarity and
brilliance from natures earthbound treasures. A basic understanding of these
enhancement techniques will add to your appreciation of the beauty, durability
and value of the
gemstone jewelry you already own, or plan to purchase in the
future. The most popular colors of
London,
Swiss, and Sky
blue topaz are
achieved by treatment with different atomic particles like electrons and
neutrons. This enhancement process is permanent.
Blue Topaz care: Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner
on your
blue topaz jewelry. Avoid sudden temperature
changes, steaming and contact with cosmetics, hairspray, perfume or household
chemicals. Clean only with a damp cloth or soft brush with room temperature
water.
