Vintage & antique amethyst rings

Amethyst has natural impurities of iron and other metals to thank for its signature violet hue. It's flattered by a cabochon or sliced cut which both make a fantastic exhibition of its mystical hue and internal structure.

Similar rings

What is amethyst?

Amethyst is a natural variety of quartz known for its beautiful purple colour. It’s formed when iron and other trace elements are present during crystal growth. Amethyst is found in both large and small crystals, and can be cut into many different shapes and sizes. Thanks to its popularity and versatility, amethyst has been used in rings and other jewellery for centuries - it’s a familiar sight in antique pieces from many periods.

What colour is amethyst?

Amethyst is always purple. However, the shade can vary. You may find stones ranging from pale lilac all the way through to deep violet. Some even show red or blue tones. Amethysts heated beyond a certain temperature may turn yellow or orange.

For all amethysts, the colour depends on the amount of iron and the heat the stone has been exposed to. In antique rings, you may notice amethysts with slightly faded tones. This is normal and can add to the charm, especially if the stone has been worn over many years.

Where does amethyst come from?

Amethyst is found in many parts of the world. Brazil and Uruguay are a major source of larger stones, while there are also deposits in Africa, Asia and Russia.
In fact, Russia was previously the world’s main supplier of amethysts - especially during the 18th and 19th centuries. This explains why Russian amethysts often appear in antique rings. Nowadays, the majority come from Brazil.

When and how was amethyst discovered?

Amethyst has been known since ancient times – originally between 4,000 – 2,000 BC. It was notably popular in Ancient Greece. Then, it was thought to protect against drunkenness and excess, being used in rings, necklaces and other pieces.
Thanks to its long history, amethyst is often found in antique rings from different cultures. With each having their own approach to cutting and setting the stone, you often find unique, beautiful and varying pieces that use it.

Are amethysts suitable for engagement rings?

The deep purple of amethyst makes for stunning and romantic engagement rings. Many antique engagement rings feature amethysts, especially from the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian periods.

Amethyst engagement rings

Why are amethysts popular?

Put simply, amethysts have long been admired for their gorgeous purple colour. For jewellers, the stone is usually clear and easy to cut. The purple colours also work well with other stones, creating stunning combinations. It’s also relatively durable - amethyst measures seven on the Mohs scale, which is fairly hard, although care must be taken not to let harder stones (such as diamond) scratch it.

For those reasons, amethyst has featured in jewellery from ancient times through to the present day. Its mix of beauty and accessibility makes it a consistent favourite for collectors and wearers.

What does amethyst symbolise?

Amethyst has, for centuries, been associated with peace, love and balance. In Ancient Greece, it was thought to guard against overindulgence. Thanks to its royal purple colour, it has also been seen as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
These ideas were popular in the 19th century, when symbolism often influenced jewellery design. In antique rings, the use of amethyst often reflects these meanings.

Is it true amethyst was reserved only for royalty?

Amethyst has been highly prized and worn by royalty across the centuries. This was especially true before large deposits were found in Brazil, when it was just as valuable as other rare gemstones like rubies and sapphires.

This made it a popular choice for regal rings. It was also heavily used in ceremonial jewellery, such as the British crown jewels. And while amethyst is now not as rare as it once was, its stunning colours mean it is still widely used in both signature and personal pieces.

Does amethyst have healing powers?

Amethyst has traditional links with healing. While it’s not actually a cure for anything, it’s undeniable that the stone’s colour and history give it a calming, thoughtful presence. Antique rings often reflect this - especially those made for personal use rather than display.

What months are they the birthstone for?

Amethyst is the birthstone for those born in February. As such, it is often given as a birthday gift or for milestones and celebrations. The stone is also the gemstone for sixth wedding anniversaries.

Birthstones by month
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