Different Amethyst Treatment

    Different Amethyst Treatment

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    Different Amethyst Treatment

    by Yuman Hussain

    Different Amethyst treatment tells about different laboratory treatments of Amethyst including heat treatment and irradiation process and its effect including its commercial value.

    Different Amethyst Treatment, its Effect and respective Commercial Value

    Amethyst has been the most sought after stone from time immemorial. It was the favorite stone of British monarchy and sparkled in the crown of Catherine the Great and ancient Egyptian royals. Amethyst being birth stone for the month of February is the common quartz used in jewelry. The healing and magical properties of Amethyst made it valuable right from the middle Ages. Amethyst was considered symbol of celibacy and piety by the Christian Priests in the western countries. Considered as a strong antidote against drunkenness it literally meant ‘not to intoxicate’ in ancient Greece. Violet and Purple varieties of Amethyst are considered as symbol of heaven, as they are related to the constellations of Pisces and Aries.

    Amethyst is transparent quartz having the presence of manganese, which produces the stunning purple color. It also has iron content which adds variation to the colors. Its brilliant color is therefore often compared with most expensive gemstones. Generally cut in a six sided prismatic crystal shape it produces a sparkling cluster. Amethyst are available in wide range of sizes, shapes and colors from deep purple which are considered valuable particularly a rich purple with rose flashes to pale colors like Lilac.

    This hard and versatile stone is available world wide however different regions produce their own unique varieties. Most of these stones are mined in Latin American countries like Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Bolivia as well as in some African countries like Zambia and Namibia. The stones from the mines of South America are usually larger in size but the African stones are considered better in color and saturation. Some dark colored small sized amethysts are mined in Australia also. These stones are graded according to clarity and color. The Siberian stones belong to higher grade outclass all other competitors in richness and depth of their violet and purple hues. Uruguay mines produce medium grade stone having properties of medium to dark tone and moderate to strong saturation. The lower grade Amethyst in light to medium color is found in Brazil.

    To enhance the beauty many gemstones are treated to various processes since antiquity. These human initiated processes are basically done to improve the nature and color of the stones. These are usually undetectable and somewhat irreversible processes. The two main processes are heat treatment and irradiation which if done properly can dramatically change the Amethyst’s clarity.

    Heating

    Heating is the most common treatment which can alter the color of a stone to lighten, darken, or change completely. Very dark amethyst is heated to produce lighter shades. Most of the amethyst available in the gem market is enhanced to get exotic shades. On treating Amethyst under controlled conditions one can produce some very astonishing colors or intensify the royal purple color at 400c to 600c. This heat treatment causes inclusions to expand causing tiny fractures in the crystal surrounding them. It is a permanent and common Amethyst treatment and last forever. Most of the large darker stones exhibiting color zoning are often heat-treated to produce dramatic color changes.

    Citrine from Amethyst

    Citrine, yellow colored quartz though occurs naturally is produced by heating amethyst with the proper iron content under controlled conditions. It was discovered long ago that by heat-treating light colored amethyst or smoky quartz a small percentage would turn into attractive golden yellow color. The only difference between amethyst and citrine is the oxidation state of the iron impurities present in the quartz. When heated, the iron impurities are reduced to make amethyst’s purple color to fade and turn yellow to reddish-orange (citrine). This process depends on various factors including the percentage of the iron impurities present and the heating duration and time. Much of citrine which comes from Brazil is heat-treated. Some unusual like golden orange or Rio Grande citrine or dark sherry colored or Madeira citrine are highly prized. On subsequent heating amethyst looses color and turns grey or white making it worthless.

    Vermarine or Prasiolite

    There is green quartz called ‘Greened’ amethyst or Vermarine also known as Prasiolite having light to medium color. It is produced by careful heating of Brazilian amethyst. A collector’s item though inexpensive is not available easily. The heat treatment of Amethyst between 878 and 1382 degrees F may produce light yellow, red, brown, green or colorless varieties of stones. The result of heat treating these gems are stable so they hardly require any special care while wearing .But they should not be steam-cleaned due to their susceptibility to heat.
    Irradiation

    Sometimes irradiation an uncommon treatment is used to get unusual colors like clear green or dark/black smoky quartz. This process involves penetrating material with subatomic Gamma rays. These rays invade the electrons of the gems making them lose and captured by other atoms. It changes the light absorbing pattern and hence the change in the color. In the irradiated quartz crystal the color distribution would be more at the terminations and less at the roof. Through this process Amethyst can get its original purple color from the yellow citrine which re-oxidizes the iron impurities. This irradiation occurs either by synthetic means in the lab, or through natural radioactive decaying of minerals present in close vicinity. In most cases this is a reversible process. But excessive heat can change the distribution of the iron impurities within the quartz making it impossible to convert it back to amethyst.

    Though considered at par with precious gemstones like Diamond, Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald , Amethyst has lost much of its value due to easy availability and discovery of vast deposits in some Latin American countries like Brazil. Earlier Amethyst was a prized possession due to its scarcity. In the recent years the technological advancements have led to its wide spread imitation in the labs making it the most market friendly stone.

    Tanzanite Stones

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    Tanzanite Stones

    by Erum Ali Qureshi

    Popular for its intense deep violet to blue color, Tanzanite is actually the commercial name given to the mineral Zoisite. This beautiful gem is increasingly being used in fine jewelry across the globe instead of the much-used and hugely popular blue sapphire . Here we take a look at the properties and characteristics that distinguish it from other similar looking stones like iolite and blue sapphire.

    Tantalizing Tanzanite

    Popular for its intense deep violet to blue color, Tanzanite stone is actually the commercial name given to the mineral Zoisite. This beautiful gem is increasingly being used in fine jewelry across the globe instead of the much-used and hugely popular blue sapphire . Here we take a look at the properties and characteristics that distinguish it from other similar looking stones like iolite and blue sapphire.

    Tanzanite Stone

    The stone Tanzanite, named after its country of origin Tanzania actually occurs as the mineral Zoisite. Its chemical composition is hydrous calcium Aluminium silicate. Zoisite occurs in many colors such as pink, brown, yellow, green, blue and a peculiar color described as ‘khaki’. Only the deep violet to blue colored variety is referred to and marketed as Tanzanite. All these shades of color are liable to turn to the favored blue on careful heat treatment and this is usually carried out.

    Tanzanite as we know it was discovered only in the year 1967 in the Meralanie hills of the Lelatema district of Tanzania. Prior to this the only varieties of Zoisite that had some claim to being a gem material were the massive pink variety known as thulite and the green chrome-rich material, which occurs as matrix for large hexagonal crystals of ruby found in Tanzania. This variety however is used as an ornamental material and prized for its rich green-red color combination.

    Tanzanite Stone

    Much of traditional India considers blue sapphire an astrologically effective stone. Therefore its use in modern fine jewelry is limited. People prefer to wear it only if it suits their sun sign or on the advice of an astrologer. This is one reason why tanzanite is gaining popularity in traditionally motivated markets such as India. It has no astrological significance and its color matches closely with blue sapphire sometimes even exceeding its allure due to its (tanzanite’s) violet tinge.

    Heat treatment

    All colors of Zoisite crystals are heated at temperatures up to 380 degrees Celsius, as the stones tend to disintegrate at higher temperatures. Therefore care must be taken while cleaning jewelry set with Tanzanite in ultrasonic cleaners as they might fracture badly therein. Since heat treatment is universal, it has no effect on price, and most finished gems of this variety are assumed to be heat-treated.

    Tanzanite Pendant

    Imitations

    Tanzanite is often confused with a similar looking gemstone called Iolite. However when viewed through a dichroscope the pleochroic colors of iolite (blue, violet and pale yellow) distinguish it from tanzanite whose pleochroic colors include (violet, green and blue). A dichroscope is a small tube like gemological apparatus that is used to view the colors of the ordinary and extraordinary rays in colored gemstones. (See box for the definition of Pleochroism.)

    There are also other differences between tanzanite and Iolite. for one, the specific gravity of tanzanite (3.15 to 3.38) is much more than that of iolite (2.57 to 2.61) meaning that the heft of a stone purported to be tanzanite will be considerably more than that of iolite. The refractive index too shows a marked difference Tanzanite- 1.69 to 1.70) as compared to iolite1.54 to 1.60). Of course measuring these two properties (specific gravity and refractive index) requires gemological training and knowledge and is best left to the experts. The information given here is solely for reference purposes.

    Tanzanite Necklace

    A table of tanzanite simulants is given below along with their identifying features.

    MaterialComment
    IolitePleochroic colors- Blue, violet and pale yellow usually seen simply as almost colorless and deep blue.
    Refractive index- 1.54 to 1.60
    Specific Gravity- 2.57 to 2.61
    Blue GlassBlue glass cannot be much of a convincing simulant for tanzanite, for one the typical inclusions in glass (gas bubbles, mold marks) chips and breakages will give it away. Also it will not display Pleochroism.
    Blue YAG (Yttrium Aluminium garnet-a synthetic crystalline material)Refractive index- 1.83
    Specific Gravity- 4.6 (approximately) affording it substantial heft as compared to tanzanite. Also it will not display Pleochroism.
    Purplish-blue synthetic corundumPleochroism- purplish-blue to light grayish-blue.
    Refractive index- 1.76 to 1.78
    Specific Gravity- 3.80 to 4.05
    Synthetic blue forsteriteStrong Pleochroism, blue to pink.
    Refractive index- 1.63 to 1.67
    Specific Gravity- 3.2

    Grading

    There is no universally accepted method of grading colored gemstones. Tanzanite One, a major commercial player in the tanzanite market, through its no-profit subsidiary, The Tanzanite Foundation, has introduced its own color grading system. The new system’s color-grading scales divide tanzanite colors into a range of hues, between blue violet and violet blue.Clarity grading in colored gemstones is based on the eye-clean standard, that is, a gem is considered flawless if no inclusions are visible with the unaided eye (assuming 20×20 vision). The Gemological Institute of America classifies tanzanite as a Type I gemstone, meaning it is normally eye-flawless. Expect gems with eye-visible inclusions to be traded at deep discounts.

    Pleochroism
    Pleochroism is a phenomenon associated with colored gemstones. What happens is light reacts differently as it enters a gemstone creating two or three different colors that can be viewed when the gemstone is viewed through a device known as the dichroscope. Some stones, for instance untreated tanzanite roughs display this property even without using the dichroscope. Simply rotating the stone against a light source will exhibit colors in the different orientations.

    Amethyst Facts

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    Amethyst Facts

    by Sheweta Dhanuka

    This good-looking gemstone has to be purple in colour. However, different shades of purple are found as it is procured from diverse parts of the universe that have different climatic conditions, nature of the chemical composition and temperature levels etc. With the shade of purple colour of the stone, the country could be identified from where the respective stone is acquired.

    Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Its name is derived from the Greek word ‘amethystos’ that means ‘not intoxicated’. It possesses wine colour thus name implies that it protects the wearer from alcohol. It is perfect for those born in the 2nd month of the year that is February and those celebrating their 4th & 6th year of marriage.

    Royal families adore this fascinating gemstone as it embellishes their power and lushness. It is even very popular amongst other groups of the society due to its lovely colour, affordable price, versatile shapes and durability. Altogether it is a simple gem but it is not simple to get hold of a genuine gemstone. In order to make the purchase of a real amethyst buyer needs to be familiar with the facts and other details about the stone. This content is presented with the aim of providing all-purpose information that would assist the buyer in knowing the gemstone fully. We would first start with the four important Cs and then other characteristics.

    Colour – This good-looking gemstone has to be purple in colour. However, different shades of purple are found as it is procured from diverse parts of the universe that have different climatic conditions, nature of the chemical composition and temperature levels etc. With the shade of purple colour of the stone, the country could be identified from where the respective stone is acquired. Sometimes, in the chemical composition of the stone few traces of iron are found due to which the colour of the stone turns violet. Blue and gray are other colour possibilities. Colour other than shades of purple is considered below quality standard therefore is valued less.
    Few dark purple colored stone produce red flash effect when swiveled under any direct light source. With decrease in the depth of the purple colour the value of the stone in terms of money also decreases. While buying the gemstone, one should always opt stones having saturated distribution of colour all over the surface.

    Clarity – It is the gemstone with crystal clear appearance. It gains an edge over other affordable semi precious gemstones due to its transparency. By and large it is free from inclusions and flaws but there always exists the prospect that few stones might have some defects. If the stone is bright purple in colour then few minor inclusions can be neglected and should be neglected as such defects seldom harms the beauty of the stone. Overall it is a clean and clear stone.

    Cut – Cutting is not very difficult for this stone, it can be given varied shapes and sizes. These days many innovative shapes are seen like that of a leaf, star and new moon etc. Some common cuts are pear, oval, emerald, square, round and triangle etc. When the colour is spread evenly throughout the stone the cutter could give any desired cut as demanded by the jewelry designers and buyers. In case of uneven colour distribution round cuts are the best to maximize the beauty and minimize the colour defects. No matter what cut is given to the rough, the final stone must have even facets and finely polished.

    Carat Weight – This is an important price determinant. With the increase in carat weight the price of the stone also increases. As this stone is moderately priced, high carat weight stone can be selected. With the larger stone the look of the jewelry items gets blown up that makes the wearer center of attraction. The ideal weight for all the ornaments is more than 2 carat. Moreover, almost all the designs cater to every size stones. Stones with less than one ctw are not that effective in looks thus should be preferred less.

    Price – This startling semi precious gemstone is easily affordable for the people having reasonable budgets. Price is ascertained on the basis of all the four Cs that is colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. Bright deep purple colour, crystal clear transparency, innovative cuts and high carat weight are the zenith of all these four characteristics that fetches high price. When the quality reduces from the zenith the cost also comes down. One more important factor is rarity. Dark colored stone producing red flash effect are very rare thus priced more.

    Occurrence – It occurs as long prismatic crystals in the metamorphic and igneous rocks consisting of coarse-grained silicon minerals. Sometimes the composition might contain certain impurities that are responsible for the colour change from purple to violet. The impurities are nothing but the iron mineral present in the composition.

    Source – It is found throughout the world hence is quite affordable. Few countries to name are Brazil, Canada, India, Madagascar, Australia, Argentina, Bolivia, Russia and Sri Lanka. Large stones consisting of saturated colour all over the facade are obtained from different states of United States of America like Colorado, Georgia, Montana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Virginia. Few African countries also produce fair amount of this versatile gem that are Namibia, Uruguay and Zambia.
    Enhancements – Dark shades are preferred over the lighter shades thus stone with pale colours are heat treated or stained to improve the colour. The treatments do not proffer the look as created by nature but it is satisfactory and last for quite long. Enhanced stones are priced less over the natural colours.

    Imitations – It is easily created in laboratories through modern methods and techniques. These synthetic stones are widely spread in the gemstone market and sold under the fancy names like Japanese Amethyst, Desert amethyst, False amethyst and Lithia amethyst. Poor quality purple sapphire is treated and sold as Bengal amethyst. These imitations are very much identical to the real gems therefore buyers should ensure the reputations and truthfulness of the dealer before making the final purchase.

    Use – It is widely used for making heart breaking jewelry item viz. rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, broaches and bracelets. This gemstone jewelry could be worn for daily use. It gets very well paired with diamonds and pearls. Sterling silver, 18K yellow gold and 14K or 18K white gold are different metals used for jewelry making but for amethyst, yellow gold is much better as it compliments the look of the stone. Females as well as males love wearing rings holding this fine-looking gemstone. It makes spectacular jewelries that are in demand in every corner of the globe.
    Precautions – This astounding gem is rated 6.5 – 7.5 Mohs on the hardness scale. The hardness rate implies it as a sturdy and firm stone. It does not require any special care but too much exposure to the scorching sunlight would ruin its beautiful colour. Sharp blows, scratches and hard hits certainly splits the stone into two thus the wearer ought to be careful while using it. Being slightly sensitive towards the heat it is prone to damage under high temperature changes and excessive heat. It is recommended to prevent the stone from such conditions.

    It can be cleaned in home ultrasonic cleaner but still this method should be avoided, as it is wiser to clean it with warm soapy water and soft bristle toothbrush. Cleaning should be done only once in a while as regular cleaning deteriorates the natural shine of the stone and its jewelry. It should be stored in a fabric-lined jewelry box wrapped in cotton. These few precautions offer longer life for this captivating gem.

    Beliefs – In ancient time, many kings and emperors had this marvelous gemstone mounted in their crowns and other jewelry pieces. It also possesses religious associations such as-at the time of middle age it was an important part of the ornamentation of Catholic Church and is mentioned in bible too. Many bishops still continue the traditions and regularly wear amethyst rings. It symbolizes sincerity and sobriety. Few people believed that wearing this stunning gem in rings would protect death from any sort of poison.

    Astrologers suggest this stone for those suffering from the negative feelings like insecurity, anxiety etc. Wearing this stone in any of the jewelry piece on the body helps the wearer to attain peace of mind by overcoming the odds he/she possesses. It facilitates in curing common health related problems such as headaches, blood sugar imbalance and mental disorders. It also aids in growth in the path of meditation and spirituality. As the name suggest it lends a hand in protecting the wearer from all sort of intoxication and fights off the effects of alcohol from the body. It stimulates positive thinking and inspires one to be creative, courageous and brave.

    Craze for this awe-inspiring gemstone is continuing from past to present and mostly the same or more enthusiasm shall move from present to future as well. This purple beauty from the treasure of Mother Nature surely would beautify you with elegance and modish. Get your hands on amethyst soon and look gorgeous!!

    Amethyst Facts

    Chemical CompositionIt is silicon dioxide and the chemical formula is SiO2.
    ColoursAll shades of purple. Sometimes found in violet, blue and gray.
    Hardness6.5-7.5 Mohs.
    Refractive Index1.544-1.553
    Specific Gravity2.65 – 2.91
    LusterVitreous.
    Solid StateTransparent.
    Crystal SystemTrigonal crystal system.
    Heat SensitiveYes.
    CleavageNone.
    FracturesConchoidal.
    LuminescenceNone.
    Birefringence0.009
    EnhancementEnhanced sometimes to improve the colour.
    SourceBrazil, Australia, Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Zambia, Canada, India, Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, Sri Lanka and USA.
    PrecautionsProtect from excessive heat, sunlight and sharp blows, scratches and hits.

    How Amethyst can treat alcoholics

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    How to care for Amethyst jewelry

    by Ardamun Ramdeva

    Amethyst in rings will collect soap film, oil and dirt at the back and between the prongs of the mounting and the gemstone. Film from lotions, powders, and skin oils dulls Amethyst and reduces its brilliance.

    Caring For Amethyst Jewelry

    A member of the Quartz family, Amethyst is its most highly valued and recognizable gemstone. This transparent, purple gemstone is widely regarded as the most beautiful form of quartz. One of the best-known uses of Amethyst is in jewelry. As purple is regarded as the color of royalty, Amethyst is perfect for use in royal jewelry. It has been widely used in the Crown Jewels of England and was also found in the jewelry of ancient Egyptians.

    amethyst jewelryAmethyst is due to the presence of manganese in quartz. The darker colored Amethyst is more valuable and is usually referred to as Siberian. The paler purple gemstone is known as Rose de France. Amethyst is mined in Africa, Australia and some parts of South America. The South American Amethyst is larger in size, but the African gem is known for its darker colors in smaller sizes. It is also found in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, but the quality is not acceptable for use in jewelry.

    Amethyst and Jewelry

    Once ranked along with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds as the most precious gemstones, today, Amethyst is valued much lower than the others because of its abundance. Its affordable price makes it a popular choice for jewelry. It has a hardness of 7 on the Moh’s scale and its color ranges from violet to pale-red violet.

    Caring for Amethyst jewelry is a matter of common sense. Caring involves cleaning of your jewelry pieces. Amethyst jewelry needs to be cleaned periodically. Amethyst in rings will collect soap film, oil and dirt at the back and between the prongs of the mounting and the gemstone. Film from lotions, powders, and skin oils dulls Amethyst and reduces its brilliance. The lost luster and its brilliance can be restored by cleaning your Amethyst jewelry in a gentle dishwashing liquid and a soft brush. A rinse in warm water and drying with a soft cloth will return your jewelry and Amethyst to its former pristine condition.

    Ensure that your jewelry is not subjected to random blows, such as during exercises. Avoid wearing jewelry while exercising. You can cause damage to your beautiful gemstone and dent and/or break the metal of the jewelry. Store your Amethyst jewelry while engaging in such strenuous activities.

    Amethyst in your jewelry, in which your precious gemstone has not been enhanced in any way, may fade with long exposure to sunlight. Before using in jewelry, Amethyst is sometimes subjected to heat treatment to enhance its color. Yellow Amethyst is known as burnt Amethyst, as it turns to yellow when exposed to heat. Care needs to be taken to ensure that Amethyst jewelry, made with Amethyst that has been heated to enhance its color, is not exposed to high heat.

    If cared properly, your Amethyst jewelry will give you years of wearing pleasure. There are chances that chlorine and salt water may discolor and fade the Amethyst in your jewelry. Ensure you leave your Amethyst jewelry at home when visiting your local pool or when spending a day at the beach.

    In jewelry, Amethyst is used with sterling silver or gold. Care needs to be taken to ensure that these precious metals are also not damaged. Sterling Silver tarnishes naturally and needs regular cleaning. Store your Amethyst jewelry with sterling silver mounting, in a self-sealing plastic bag to slow down the tarnishing. Tarnishing can be removed by hand polishing with a soft cloth.

    Hold your jewelry by the mounting and not by the Amethyst in it. This can cause the gemstone to loosen and there is a risk of losing it.

    Amethyst Jewelry – Care and Cleaning

    Fine Amethyst jewelry can last a lifetime. All it needs is proper care and cleaning. Cleaning your fine Amethyst jewelry is one way of keeping it bright and shinning, as it was on the day you first purchased it. Amethyst is fairly durable but still needs proper care:

    * Clean your Amethyst jewelry regularly to remove the oil and soap film that distracts from its beauty.* Remove your Amethyst jewelry while exercising or playing sports. Your gemstone can be chipped or be jarred loose.

    * Before wearing your jewelry, check for loose Amethyst.

    * Avoid wearing jewelry during housework. Contact with household chemicals, specially ammonia-based, may discolor or damage your jewelry.

    * Never store your jewelry in piles or together. This is to avoid scratching the Amethyst in your jewelry as well as the metal mounting. Harder gemstones, such as diamonds, can scratch Amethyst.

    * Store your precious Amethyst jewelry in separate sections of the jewelry box or wrap them separately in soft cloths.

    * Do not wear your jewelry in swimming pools and on beaches. The chlorine in the pool and the seawater can harm and discolor the Amethyst in your jewelry.

    * Gold and sterling silver, the metals used with amethyst in jewelry have low hardness, from 2.5 to 4 on the Moh’s scale. Special care is needed to ensure they are not damaged and dented. Sterling silver being very soft can easily be marred by even fingernails.

    * Do not soak your jewelry for extended periods in soap or other such solutions. It may harm the polish of your gemstone.

    * Never ever use chlorine bleach to clean Amethyst jewelry.

    * Never use toothpaste to clean your Amethyst jewelry. The abrasives in your toothpaste could mar the shine on Amethyst and the mounted metal.

    If you do not want to risk cleaning your precious jewelry yourself, you can always have it cared for by a jeweler. There is no reason to believe that with care you may not be able to enjoy your Amethyst jewelry lifelong.

    Amethyst Trivia

    Amethyst is the birthstone of those born in February. Romans believed that Amethyst would guard against drunkenness. For this reason they had their drinking goblets made of Amethyst! Folklore has it that powers of Amethyst include: dreams, healing, peace, love, spiritual upliftment, courage, protection against thieves, and happiness.

    For reasons of its purple color, in the middle ages only people of noble birth were allowed to wear Amethyst jewelry. Amethyst always played a key role in various cultures throughout history and was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, the Hebrews and the Christian Church.

    How to care for Amethyst jewelry

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    How to care for Amethyst jewelry

    by Ardamun Ramdeva

    Amethyst in rings will collect soap film, oil and dirt at the back and between the prongs of the mounting and the gemstone. Film from lotions, powders, and skin oils dulls Amethyst and reduces its brilliance.

    Caring For Amethyst Jewelry

    A member of the Quartz family, Amethyst is its most highly valued and recognizable gemstone. This transparent, purple gemstone is widely regarded as the most beautiful form of quartz. One of the best-known uses of Amethyst is in jewelry. As purple is regarded as the color of royalty, Amethyst is perfect for use in royal jewelry. It has been widely used in the Crown Jewels of England and was also found in the jewelry of ancient Egyptians.

    amethyst jewelryAmethyst is due to the presence of manganese in quartz. The darker colored Amethyst is more valuable and is usually referred to as Siberian. The paler purple gemstone is known as Rose de France. Amethyst is mined in Africa, Australia and some parts of South America. The South American Amethyst is larger in size, but the African gem is known for its darker colors in smaller sizes. It is also found in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, but the quality is not acceptable for use in jewelry.

    Amethyst and Jewelry

    Once ranked along with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds as the most precious gemstones, today, Amethyst is valued much lower than the others because of its abundance. Its affordable price makes it a popular choice for jewelry. It has a hardness of 7 on the Moh’s scale and its color ranges from violet to pale-red violet.

    Caring for Amethyst jewelry is a matter of common sense. Caring involves cleaning of your jewelry pieces. Amethyst jewelry needs to be cleaned periodically. Amethyst in rings will collect soap film, oil and dirt at the back and between the prongs of the mounting and the gemstone. Film from lotions, powders, and skin oils dulls Amethyst and reduces its brilliance. The lost luster and its brilliance can be restored by cleaning your Amethyst jewelry in a gentle dishwashing liquid and a soft brush. A rinse in warm water and drying with a soft cloth will return your jewelry and Amethyst to its former pristine condition.

    Ensure that your jewelry is not subjected to random blows, such as during exercises. Avoid wearing jewelry while exercising. You can cause damage to your beautiful gemstone and dent and/or break the metal of the jewelry. Store your Amethyst jewelry while engaging in such strenuous activities.

    Amethyst in your jewelry, in which your precious gemstone has not been enhanced in any way, may fade with long exposure to sunlight. Before using in jewelry, Amethyst is sometimes subjected to heat treatment to enhance its color. Yellow Amethyst is known as burnt Amethyst, as it turns to yellow when exposed to heat. Care needs to be taken to ensure that Amethyst jewelry, made with Amethyst that has been heated to enhance its color, is not exposed to high heat.

    If cared properly, your Amethyst jewelry will give you years of wearing pleasure. There are chances that chlorine and salt water may discolor and fade the Amethyst in your jewelry. Ensure you leave your Amethyst jewelry at home when visiting your local pool or when spending a day at the beach.

    In jewelry, Amethyst is used with sterling silver or gold. Care needs to be taken to ensure that these precious metals are also not damaged. Sterling Silver tarnishes naturally and needs regular cleaning. Store your Amethyst jewelry with sterling silver mounting, in a self-sealing plastic bag to slow down the tarnishing. Tarnishing can be removed by hand polishing with a soft cloth.

    Hold your jewelry by the mounting and not by the Amethyst in it. This can cause the gemstone to loosen and there is a risk of losing it.

    Amethyst Jewelry – Care and Cleaning

    Fine Amethyst jewelry can last a lifetime. All it needs is proper care and cleaning. Cleaning your fine Amethyst jewelry is one way of keeping it bright and shinning, as it was on the day you first purchased it. Amethyst is fairly durable but still needs proper care:

    * Clean your Amethyst jewelry regularly to remove the oil and soap film that distracts from its beauty.* Remove your Amethyst jewelry while exercising or playing sports. Your gemstone can be chipped or be jarred loose.

    * Before wearing your jewelry, check for loose Amethyst.

    * Avoid wearing jewelry during housework. Contact with household chemicals, specially ammonia-based, may discolor or damage your jewelry.

    * Never store your jewelry in piles or together. This is to avoid scratching the Amethyst in your jewelry as well as the metal mounting. Harder gemstones, such as diamonds, can scratch Amethyst.

    * Store your precious Amethyst jewelry in separate sections of the jewelry box or wrap them separately in soft cloths.

    * Do not wear your jewelry in swimming pools and on beaches. The chlorine in the pool and the seawater can harm and discolor the Amethyst in your jewelry.

    * Gold and sterling silver, the metals used with amethyst in jewelry have low hardness, from 2.5 to 4 on the Moh’s scale. Special care is needed to ensure they are not damaged and dented. Sterling silver being very soft can easily be marred by even fingernails.

    * Do not soak your jewelry for extended periods in soap or other such solutions. It may harm the polish of your gemstone.

    * Never ever use chlorine bleach to clean Amethyst jewelry.

    * Never use toothpaste to clean your Amethyst jewelry. The abrasives in your toothpaste could mar the shine on Amethyst and the mounted metal.

    If you do not want to risk cleaning your precious jewelry yourself, you can always have it cared for by a jeweler. There is no reason to believe that with care you may not be able to enjoy your Amethyst jewelry lifelong.

    Amethyst Trivia

    Amethyst is the birthstone of those born in February. Romans believed that Amethyst would guard against drunkenness. For this reason they had their drinking goblets made of Amethyst! Folklore has it that powers of Amethyst include: dreams, healing, peace, love, spiritual upliftment, courage, protection against thieves, and happiness.

    For reasons of its purple color, in the middle ages only people of noble birth were allowed to wear Amethyst jewelry. Amethyst always played a key role in various cultures throughout history and was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, the Hebrews and the Christian Church.

    Amethyst and its sister stone Citrine

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    Amethyst and its sister stone Citrine

    by Yuman Hussain

    Amethyst and Citrine is about the twin stones belonging to the same quartz family or Silicon dioxide sharing most of the properties and yet are different.

    Amethyst a stunning purple and Citrine a brilliant yellow stone are varieties of common quartz differentiated only by the color. They belong to macro crystalline variety in which individual crystals are identifiable through naked eyes. The name Amethyst is derived from Greek word ‘Amethustos’ meaning not drunken. It is also possible that the purple color resembled wine hence the name or it was believed to ward off ill effects of alcohol. Citrine being one of the most affordable and beautiful stones derive its name from French word ‘citron’ meaning lemon. It has a lovely yellow color but is extremely rare to find in natural environment. It is generally believed that natural citrine may have occurred as a result of heat from magnetic bodies in close vicinity transforming the color of amethyst to yellow. This yellow color is due to ferric iron impurities in the natural form. Both the stones occur in various forms including as quartz veins and in druzy coverings inside agate lined gaps or cavities forming geodes. The main difference between citrine and amethyst is the presence of oxidized state of iron impurities which is reduced when heated. So what you see in the market is the heated amethyst resembling its yellow color. Amethyst is also heat treated to get attractive deep purple color. This heat treatment is permanent and can not be reversed under normal circumstances. The low grade amethyst is heated at the high temperature to produce the distinct yellow color. These citrine stones tend to have more orange or reddish in color than the natural stones which are pale yellow. Citrine together with amethyst can form bi-colored quartz called Ametrine.

    Amethyst index of refraction ranges from 1.544-1.553 and hardness is 7 on the Mohs scale. The crystal system is Trigonal with no Pleochroism. Amethyst and Citrine both belong to Tectosilicate class. The specific gravity is 2.65.Citrine has identical chemical properties of Amethyst. The refraction index of 1.544 – 1.553. The hardness can measured 7 on the Mohs scale. The crystal system is also hexagonal. Citrine has macroscopic crystal structure with horizontal hexagonal prism forming six sided pyramids. It is transparent to translucent in color. The Pleochroism is perceptible in the stone.

    Amethyst is often cut or faceted into cabochons for jewellery. Even the expensive gemstones like emerald, diamond, ruby and sapphire etc are often compared to Amethyst for its beauty and color. Regarded as the birthstone for the month of February it is also associated with the astrological constellations of Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn. Amethyst is symbolic gemstone for 17th wedding anniversary. Available in several shades from pale lilac to deep purple it is mined in countries like Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, Zambia, Namibia and other South African countries. Rose de France is lilac or pale lavender shaded stone but the exotic ‘Siberian’ stone with deep violet color with red flashes is most sought after. Citrine is one of the birthstones for the month of November other being Topaz. It corresponds to the astrological constellations of Gemini, Aries, Libra and Leo. Gift citrine on your 13th wedding anniversary as it is the symbolic stone for that year. Since it is an inexpensive stone it is sometimes used as an alternative for Topaz. It is also available in all shapes and sizes with shades varying from yellow to gold to orange brown giving brightness to any piece of jewelry. Madeira named after wine is dark orange citrine quartz considered most valuable. Brazil with Rio Grande do Sul is an important mining area for natural citrine. The small deposits of natural citrine are also found at Ural Mountains in Russia, Dauphine, France and Madagascar where amethyst changed its color under natural high temperatures. However most of the citrine available in gem market today is heat treated amethyst. The dark sherry and gold orange colors are mostly preferred for jewelry.

    Amethyst stone is considered to have healing properties. Right from ancient and medieval period amulets made from amethyst were worn guarding one from poison, protecting from enemies and victory on the battlefield. The Christians world wide considered it as stone representing piety and celibacy. It is also said to have strong ability to wean away from love effects. Many people believe that it contain the properties which can calm the senses and helps in meditation. Amethyst promotes mental stability and emotional well-being. It is said to aid in treating disorders related to digestive system, nervous system and provides relief from pain. Right from antiquity Citrine was also used by the people as protection against snake venom and guard against evil thoughts. This stone is said to stimulate mental capacities to enhance creativity. It can boost one’s self-confidence. It helps in removing toxins from the body and promoting healing. It can also work wonders in treating disorders related to heart, liver, kidney and digestive system. Amethyst stones and jewelry should be kept away from heated areas or hot sun as the intensive heat can fade and discolor the gem. It also makes the gem dry and brittle. The stones should be washed in plain warm water using mild soap. After washing it should be dried with soft cloth. Avoid giving it for ultrasonic cleaning as high vibration can sometimes damage the stone. Citrine jewelry which is made largely from heating Amethyst at controlled temperature should be used with care to preserve its dazzle. It should not be exposed to strong light or heat as it can permanently change its color. It gets scratches very easily so it should be kept separately.

    Once considered at par with expensive gemstones like diamond, emerald ,ruby and sapphire. Amethyst has lost its past grandeur due to discovery of huge deposits in many parts of world including high quality ones from Brazil and Russia. Same is the case with citrine which is commercially produced on large scale in the laboratories. The attractive high quality stones can still manage to turn heads with envy.

    Amethyst Crystal Structure

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    Amethyst Crystal Structure

    by Yumain Hussain

    Molecular structure of amethyst consist of chains of silicon tetrahedrons with six-sided pointed long pyramids. Most of the amethyst mined from different places and sources show remarkable differences in the molecular structure.

    Summary: Molecular structure of amethyst consist of chains of silicon tetrahedrons with six-sided pointed long pyramids. Most of the amethyst mined from different places and sources show remarkable differences in the molecular structure.
    Amethyst is one of the purple varieties of common quartz. It derives its name from Greek word ‘amethustos’ meaning not drunk. The ancient Greeks believed that drinking from amethyst cup would not intoxicate them. Amethyst looks really stunning when used in jewelry. The royal purple color of Amethyst has added beauty to the crowns of monarchs and queens right from antiquity. Belonging to macro crystalline variety Amethyst individual crystals can be seen through naked eyes. It is related to Citrine which is the yellow variety of Quartz and also to colorless rock crystal.Molecular structure is defined as a way molecules attach to each other. While it is not possible to see the individual atoms, one can see the result of how they attach to each other in whole crystals. Quartz is long crystal with six sides. The external appearance of quartz crystal show regular arrangement of atoms. The angles of the sides of crystal are constant because it is made up same atom that is one atom of silicon for every two atoms of oxygen. The molecular formula is also similar SiO2. Amethyst belongs to silicate mineral category which has structures containing silica tetrahedra (a tetrahedron with silicon at the centre surrounded by 4 oxygen anions).

    Figure: 1. Tetrahedron of Amethyst crystal depicting silica at the centre surrounded by four anions at the corners of the triangular pyramid.Source: http://ist-socrates.berkeley.edu/~ep2/wisc/

    It has trigonal crystal system consisting of chains of silicon tetrahedrons with six-sided pointed long pyramids

    Figure 2: Amethyst Trigonal system with six-sided pointed long pyramids.
    Source: www.gggems.com-images-Amethyst%20croquis-quscalenAY_jpg.htm

    Each tetrahedron is linked to other tetrahedral making cross-linked framework.

    Figure 3. Amethyst Crystals showing cross-linked framework
    Source: making matter minerals and gemstones.htm

    Sometimes it also forms druzies which are crystalline crusts showing pointed termination filling the fissures and fractures within the rocks. It is happens due to the molecular structure. Quartz is generally colorless in its pure form. It is only through impurities it gains color. Amethyst crystal has excessive iron within its structure. These iron atoms are aligned rather than scattered. When light passes through, the crystal appears purple. It is the low level radiation emission from the nearby rocks causes alignment of iron within the Amethyst crystal. It is common to find phantom quartz shapes composed of other minerals visible inside the amethyst crystal. It is basically the earlier stage of the crystal formation. These shapes form a coating on the surface giving a distinct color. The crystal than starts crystallization with a phantom crystal outline within itself.

    Figure 4. Amethyst elongated crystal showing phantom crystal outline
    source:http://mineral.galleries.com/minerals/gemstone/amethsyt

    Most of the amethyst mined from different sources and areas show different molecular structure and occurrence. Mexican amethyst from Vera Cruz are in the form of pale, clear and prismatic crystals. They are double terminated and found grown on light colored host rock. These quartz show phantom shapes that is clear quartz interior and amethyst colored exterior. Guerrero mines in Mexico have amethyst stones which are dark purple prismatic crystals radiating outward from a common attachment point. These also show phantom shapes with purple interior and white quartz exterior. Mexican stones are considered valuable than their counterparts found in other areas. Many amethyst crystals also occur as massive or pyramidal druzy clusters. In Brazilian mines the quartz occurs with agate. Formed as druzy crusts these are lined inside volcanic vugs or rock pockets. They are light to medium violet colored only at the top of the crystal. Some of these vugs were formed from trees which withered away during volcano eruptions several million years ago. Maraba in Brazil have large crystals of pale to medium color. Uruguay mines have amethyst crystals occurring as large geodes or gas bubbles and pipes. These are dark to medium colored formed in druzy crusts lining the inside of the geodes and pipes. The crystals are fully colored with agate as base. A significant quantity of large sized amethyst is found in Zambia and South Africa. Though these are not very attractive, the interior color and clarity are excellent making them as an object of desire for jewelry. Some amethyst crystal with parallel growth clusters are found in some places in Italy. These are similar to those found in Mexican mines. German mines have amethyst crystal grown together with colorful agates forming a light colored druzy crust. Ural Mountains in Russia are another zone where very clear and dark variety of amethyst are mined and cut into exclusive gemstones. There are several places in Canada and USA which produce amethyst. These are located inside fissures of rocks mostly as druzy clusters .They display a wide range of colors from bluish violet to brownish purple. For example-Thunder Bay mines of Canada show unusual reddish hematite inclusions just below the quartz surface. Clusters are formed with druzy crusts lining the fissures of metamorphic rock. Amethyst crystals are formed as flat hexagon with alternate purple and clear quartz sections formed by numerous crystals twinning in planes. The Colorado mines have amethyst druzy clusters inside fissures of sandstone. These are found often on top of green fluorite crust. North Carolina mines produce druzy clusters of amethyst with blue-violent tint. No two amethyst crystals are similar in color or composition. One crystal may show pale pink to lavender shade near the base to a deep dark purple at the point where as the other crystal may show uniform purple color from base to top. This happens due to process called crystal zoning which is layers of different colors caused by changing compositions of the fluids that formed the amethyst.

    Amethyst is graded according to the high, medium and low categories based on crystal structure and clarity of colour. However it is always rounded cut to highlight the color. Almost all amethyst stones are lab- heated to intensify the dark color. This is a permanent process usually irreversible in normal circumstances. Due to its different crystal shapes and stunning colors Amethyst is an attractive item for the mineral collectors.

    Crystal Lattice Structures

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    Crystal Lattice Structures

    by Ritika

    The various gemstones take their shape and structure based on their unique crystalline structure that each gemstone possesses. These crystalline structures of each gemstone is based and made from a mixture of different elemental compounds. Thus the atomic structure associated with elemental building blocks contributes towards the shape of a crystal or gemstone.

    Crystal Structure and Technical Terms

    Crystal

    The various attributes associated with a gemstone like its symmetry, geometric shape, optical properties and cleavage planes are all determines and based on the crystal structure of a gemstone. The technical term Crystal Habit is used to depict the growth pattern of crystal.

    Crystal’s Lattice

    The grouping of crystal structures constitutes a crystal system. These are divided and grouped based on the axial system which describe the crystal lattice. A lattice denotes regular array of lattice points in three dimensions. That is a crystal lattice is nothing but atoms arranged in a symmetrical pattern on a three dimensional network fashion. The structure formed by connecting the eight lattice points is a parallelepiped which is technically termed as a crystallographic unit cell.

    The crystal is a repeating array and its structure is determined by the following two properties namely:

    • pattern of repetition which is termed as the lattice type
    • what is repeated which is termed as the unit cell

    Types of Crystal Systems

    Each crystal system is arranged in a set of three axes geometric system. Each crystal system takes a unique shape based on the unique geometrical arrangement of each crystal system on the three axes. There are seven types of crystal systems and they are as below:

    • Isometric System
    • Hexagonal System
    • Tetragonal System
    • Rhombohedric (Trigonal) System
    • Orthorhombic System
    • Monoclinic System
    • Triclinic System

    The above seven crystal systems are listed in order of their decreasing symmetry. The geometric arrangement of the individual lattice points within each of the seven crystal systems described above is termed as Bravais lattices and there are fourteen distinct Bravais lattices.

    Crystal Lattice Structures

    The popular crystal lattice structures are

    • Simple Cubic
    • Cubic Close Packed Crystals
    • Body-Centered Cubic
    • Hexagonal Close-Packed Crystals
    • Carbon and Related Structures
    • Manganese Structures
    • The Laves Phase Structures
    • Perovskite and Related Structures
    • Quartz and Related Structures
    • Sulfur and its compounds
    • Structures of the Lanthanides, Actinides and Their Compounds
    • IIIb-VIIb Structures
    • Binary Pnma Alloy Structures
    • and Other Crystal Structures

    Cubic unit cell and Simple Cubic Unit Cell

    The elements which constitute a cubic unit cell are six square faces and three equal non-coplanar edges. That is if the sides are denotes by x, y, z then a cubic unit cell has the following characteristics namely

    x=y=z

    The volume of the cubic unit cell is denoted as x3
    Simple Cubic unit cell is also denoted as SC in short. The simple cubic unit cell has one lattice point present in each of the eight corners of a cube. If the lattice points are present only at the eight corners of the cube then it is termed technically as primitive.

    Cubic Close Packed Crystals

    Crystalline structures associated in a closed packed cubic lattice are termed as cubic close packed crystals.

    Body-Centered Cubic

    Body-Centered Cubic is also referred as BCC in short consist of a single host atom at each corner of the cubic unit cell and a single atom in the cell center. The arrangement in BCC is such that each of these atoms touches eight other host atoms along the body diagonal of the cube.

    Hexagonal Close-Packed Crystals

    Hexagonal Close-Packed Crystals is also termed as HCP in short. In this structure the arrangement of plane is in such a fashion such that atoms in successive planes associate in a triangular groove with the preceding plane.

    Carbon and Related Structures

    Crystalline lattice refers to the atoms in a crystal that are arranged in a regular repeating pattern. The property or attribute of a crystal is highly determined by its lattice. For instance both graphite and diamond constitute carbon as its major element or atom. But both graphite and diamond differs in its properties which is based on how the atom namely carbon is arranged in both. That is we can see that graphite which is black in color has the attribute of being soft and also acts as a good lubricant. This clearly depicts that atoms in graphite could be separated easily. In contrast the attribute of diamond are that it is strong and extremely hard and is also transparent at the same time. This clearly shows that the atoms in diamond could not be separated easily as it is strongly bounded.

    Manganese Structures

    There are several structures in which Manganese is available and the most rarest forms are termed as aMn and ßMn.

    The Laves Phase Structures

    The elements arranged in Laves Phase Structure are in the order as AB2. In this the atom A is arranged in the similar way as in crystal like diamond and the atom B is arranged in the shape of tetrahedra around the atom A.

    Perovskite and Related Structures

    The crystal structure like Perovskite structure have ferroelectric attribute. The structure of crystal along with this attribute enables these to become permanently polarized when these are subjected to electric field of sufficient magnitude.

    Quartz and Related Structures

    The chemical symbolic representation of Quartz is SiO2 and this exists in different forms. The crystal structure in which alpha Quartz is present is termed as Trigonal. The Trigonal crystal system has totally four axes. Of these four axes three axes are of equal length and they lie at an angle of 120¡ã from each other. The fourth axes are either longer or shorter in length but exist at a right angle toward the other corners.

    Structures of the Lanthanides, Actinides and their Compounds

    The Lanthanides, Actinides and their Compounds exist in various structures. Some of the rare forms among these are namely Cf, aPu, ßPu and so on.

    Other Crystal Structures

    There are other crystal structures as well like Trigonal omega phase referred to as C6, Cuprites referred to as C3 and so on which do not fit in any of the above described.

    Is Amethyst a Spiritual gemstone

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    Is Amethyst a Spiritual gemstone

    by Ashutosh Roy

    If you ever want to increase your awareness regarding your inner aspects for the spurt of your spiritual growth, you must sharpen your third eye and try to look into the world by your third eye. Amethyst plays the most significant role in opening your third eye and reenergizes the same for heightening awareness.

    Amethyst – Opener of the third eye

    Amethyst got eminence in the world of astrology for its power of self-awakening and wisdom, the ultimate goal of life. But how many of us know about its marvelous power of opening the invisible third eye as a reality to look into the core of everything around which is still en enigma to most of us.

    Amethyst is one of the historic stones, regarded as “nature’s tranquilizer” starting from the Greek civilization. The ball started rolling and rolling as Amethyst even today is believed to be a stone for awakening wisdom.

    The name Amethyst has been derived from the Greek word amethystus. The meaning is “Not drunken” or “not intoxicated”. For a Chemistry student, the word Methylene resembles intoxication. So, Amethyst, which stands for anti-intoxication, symbolizes purification, pacification of the human being.

    The main recognition of Amethyst is in its colour and lack of cleavage. The purple colour, radiates by Amethyst symbolizes spirituality, though the purple colour is a result of some impurities of Iron (Fe4+) deposited in the crystal structure of quartz. Remember the purple colour has always been associated with royalty also.

    Astrologically the Amethyst is the birthstone of February and the stone for 17th Anniversary. The astrological signs of this pacifying crystalline quartz gemstone are Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn

    The anti-alcoholic nature of Amethyst is supported by the fact of life that even if plain water is poured into a glass made of amethyst; it will reflect the colour of wine. The colour of water in disguise of alcohol will deceive the drunker at time of excess consumption and the normal inebriate effect will be nullified. So, people started believing that Amethyst can protect one from drunkenness when consuming alcohol. This had become a firm conviction of the Greeks and even in medieval times. The myth is that Amethyst helps even removing toxins from the body and highly useful for stopping psychic attack. Its said to be an excellent healer for vital body parts like hurt and lung. Its utility in treatment for arthritis and insomnia has been widely accepted. Ancient Egyptians had been using it as a protection against evil powers like witchcraft.

    The deceiving feature of Amethyst has been appraised highly to stop the drainage of energy level through intoxication, which paves the way of ‘channelizing’ the energy level towards strength, stability, wisdom, vigor and spirituality. In fact the enormous contribution of Amethyst for stopping misuse of energy and bad habits have placed the gemstone in the realm of purification and pacification. Amethyst has been found to be keeping at home to captivate the positive energies by removing the negatives or impurities. Amethyst is said to guard against self-deception and negative feelings like guilty or fear. It had become the Bishop’s stone in the Christ age and even today most of the catholic Bishops prefer to wear Amethyst as a symbol of prayer and faith to the Almighty.

    As Amethyst becomes instrumental in reducing extra alcoholism, it has been started to be recognized as a teacher of all spiritual and psychic attitudes of human beings. Amethyst cleanses body, mind and soul, essential for awakening of inner self. Not only, the physical parts, Amethyst clears blockage from the Chakras also. The purification power helps in removing the past “sins”, the gateway to the God. The awakening of wisdom helps restructuring your body parts for spiritual development. This holistic gemstone has got the capacity of realigning the charkas also. Amethyst is even said to renew your energy level and create a balance the chakras by transforming energies at all levels, whenever required. The spiritual growth enables you to appreciate the concept of rebirth and the truth of death, which means only the death of the physical organs carrying one’s karma for the next birth.

    Amethyst and wisdom have become synonymous as it is said to be the most effective stone for the sixth chakra, the brow and the seventh chakra, the crown. How does it help you? If you ever think of exploring your spiritual power then you need to essentially concentrate and focus in Self-assurance, meditation, spiritual gateways and finally a total surrender.

    First of all let us talk about the inner awareness. If you ever want to increase your awareness regarding your inner aspects for the spurt of your spiritual growth, you must sharpen your third eye and try to look into the world by your third eye. Amethyst plays the most significant role in opening your third eye and reenergizes the same for heightening awareness. Saints believe that there is a continuous flow of energy through the cycle of throat to forehead. Its generally subdued and gets activated either by meditation or by invoking an extra spiritual nudge by Guru or saints. Amethyst is believed to play this key role. If you have any Amethyst jewelry, just hold it on the top of your head for 30 to 60 seconds and then bring it back to its normal position. This technique will open your third eye and make the energy flow steady. Even gem therapy advises to keep an amethyst below the pillow for a sound sleep and rub it in the forehead for immediate relief from headache. So the technique of using Amethyst may reveal your inner-self exposing you to the spiritual world. The astrologers believe that the 7th Chakra, the Crown stands for controlling mental activity by restructuring and harmonizing the energy level.

    Amethyst aids both Brow and Crown chakra. The combination of power of these two chakras helps in meditation and allows you to recall your older births and lifestyles, slowly opening your door to the spiritual realm. The power of introspection, self-analysis, realization, consciousness are the key benefits of utilizing the 6th and 7th chakras properly. The soothing colour of the Amethyst helps you in relieving stress and unwanted blockade of your mind set to give you a fresh energy level for your psychic development and increase your intuition power to explore your hidden knowledge.

    And gradually you will step into the world, which is obviously beyond the scientific reasoning, where even Einstein had to say, “God… yet to be discovered”.

    Crystallographic Symmetry

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    Crystallographic Symmetry

    by Ritika

    The Crystallographic Symmetry and the applications related to it are vital for people related to various fields namely mathematicians, physicists, and chemists and so on and many researches and investigation related to these have been carried by them. The operations related to crystallographic symmetry could fall in any of the different kinds of available isometries. So first it is essential to have a fair knowledge about isometries and its kinds which will be dealt in the below section. Generally an object is referred as symmetric with respect to a transformation only if the object appears to be in a state that is identical to its initial state after the transformation. In terms of crystallography the types of symmetry is in terms of an apparent movement of the object such as some type of rotation or translation.

    About Isometries

    Isometries define in simple term is one which maps each point present in the point space onto exactly one image point. In addition it also refers to the mapping of the point space onto itself thereby leaving all distances and angles also invariant.

    Kinds of Isometries

    The two broad categories in which the kinds of isometries fall are namely:

    • Proper Isometries
    • ImProper Isometries

    The proper isometries are also called as isometries of the first kind and the improper isometries are also termed as isometries of the second kind.

    The kinds of isometries are as below

    • Identity referred as I
    • Translation referred as T
    • Rotation
    • Screw Rotation
    • Inversion
    • Rotoinversion
    • Reflection
    • Glide Reflection

    In the above, the first four isometries fall in the category of proper isometries, also called isometries of the first kind. This is because in all the first four kinds of isometries while mapping they preserve the handedness of object. In contrast, the kinds of isometries from 5 to 8 in above list change the handedness and so fall in the improper isometries category.

    About Space Group and Site Symmetry

    The space group S of crystal pattern is used to refer all the symmetry operations associated with the crystal pattern. The set of all elements of S in other words the space group which leaves a fixed point F is termed as site symmetry group of F with regard to the space group S.

    Operations Related to Crystallographic Site-Symmetry

    Symmetry around a position in a molecule or crystal is very vital and this is determined by various attributes like chemical bonds. This in turn has an influence on physical and chemical attributes of the crystal or substance. The elements of crystallographic site symmetry from types of isometries are

    Identity

    This is a member of crystallographic site-symmetry group as this operation has order one and as it leaves any fixed point.

    Inversion

    The order of this operation is two and this is could also be a member of crystallographic site-symmetry group.

    Rotation

    There are two distinct methods of rotational symmetry operations. They are termed as Hermann-Mauguin nomenclature and chönflies nomenclature which fall under either proper rotations or improper rotations. The proper rotations move an object without changing the handedness of the object but in contrast the improper rotation has in it a component for proper rotation and in addition also inverts the handedness of the object. The extension to the concept of rotation symmetry is to include in each rotation operator a translation component which result in operations termed as screw rotations.

    Reflections

    The above operations namely identity, inversion, rotation, rotoinversions and reflections are symmetry operations of space group.

    It is also possible to combine symmetry operations which would result in the generation of other symmetry operations. This is technically referred to as group of symmetry operations. It is called point groups because the symmetry elements of these operations all pass through a single point of the object. For instance, operations related to rotation symmetry could be combined with translations of part of the unit cell which would result in relating entirely new symmetry operations. Thus it is possible to combine proper and improper rotation operations with rules of groups being followed which would result in generation of 32 crystallographic point groups.

    Symmetry Element

    The crystallographic symmetry operation could be viewed geometrically using the geometric element also termed as symmetry element. Here symmetry element refers to a point or line or plane related to the symmetry. This varies based on the operation involved in symmetry namely if the operation of symmetry is rotoinversion the symmetry point would be the inversion point. But the two operations namely the identity operation and the translation operation do not have a symmetry element. It is also possible that a single symmetry element may have associated with it more than a single symmetry operation but in contrast, the symmetry element associated with a symmetry operation is unique.

    Crystal Systems with Symmetry Order

    The symmetry in crystals structure well seen in crystal faces is because of the ordered internal arrangement of atoms in a crystal structure. The study of symmetry in crystallography helps in variety of applications and some to name are it helps to characterize crystals, identify repeating parts of molecules and also simplify many calculations in research related to crystals.

    In general, crystals are solids that have an atomic structure with long-range, 3-dimensional order. If one carefully notices the several crystals from the same material it would be visible that though they may have different sizes it results that all crystals have the same shape or habit. Crystalline materials are separated into 7 crystal different systems. They are:

    • Triclinic
    • Monoclinic
    • Orthorhombic
    • Tetragonal
    • Trigonal
    • Hexagonal
    • Rhombohedral
    • Hexagonal
    • Cubic

    In the above seven crystal systems the lowest order of symmetry is triclinic. The tetragonal, Trigonal, and hexagonal crystal systems have one axis of higher symmetry.

    Thus to generate a lattice with higher symmetry then it could be achieved by selecting the lattice vectors in such a way that one or more lattice points are also on the center of a face of the lattice or inside of the unit cell. Always determination of space group and diffraction pattern for a crystal is straight forward. If suppose it is not possible to uniquely determine the space group then structure solution and refinement steps are taken for all space groups by lowering the symmetry until one could complete the structure determination perfectly.