Origin
The finest amethyst forms in geodes (gas cavities) in volcanic rocks. Crystals that are part amethyst and part citrine are called ametrine.

Sources
Amethyst comes from many places around the world, including Africa, South America, Russia, south-east Asia, China and even Cornwall. We source our rough amethyst geodes, cones and beds from Brazil, although significant amounts are from Uruguay but traded through Brazil.

Amethyst used in our jewellery settings comes additionally from a number of African countries and occasionally from elsewhere. The very deep/dark amethyst is commonly African, i.e., from South Africa, Zaire and Namibia. Stones are cut in many countries. We are presently using cutters in Jaipur (normally Muslim) and Hong Kong (China).

Our views...
"Amethyst was absolutely the key inspiration for me (Ray Mason) in our original vision for Crystals (UK) Ltd. The very first stone I bought for my personal collection was an amethyst from a healing room at a Yorkshire centre which was completely full of amethyst!

Our first shop in Torquay featured amethyst prominently, and it remains at the heart of Crystal UK's stock. A constant inspiration, it renews our raw enthusiasm for stones on a daily basis – and yes I do have a large geode in my bedroom!

Many staff feel that amethyst has played a large part in their lives. It is our belief that spreading amethyst has been an important part of our company’s purpose. Amethyst is one of our three major stones, the others being rose quartz and clear quartz.

Buying and selling amethyst has proved to be one of the most satisfying and fulfilling activities that I personally undertake in the running of Crystals (UK) Ltd."

Ray Mason – 1st March 2006
© Crystals (UK) Ltd. T/A Crystals Reg. No. 5056864.