In Greco Roman times, the stone symbolized the protection of an individual against addictions. In other cultures, it was considered to be a symbol of purity or spirituality. In Asian cultures, the stone is considered to have many healing physical characteristics. It is also the birth stone for the month of February.

Amethyst engagement rings were highly popular during the Victorian period in England. Their popularity experienced resurgence in the United States in the 1920’s during the Art Deco movement. In more recent times, it is commonly featured as the center stone in an engagement ring or promise ring. It may be encircled or complemented by the use of diamonds or other gemstones. The most common cuts for this type of stone include ovals and heart shapes; however, an amethyst engagement ring may be cut in the same forms that a diamond is available in. Although the popularity of this stone in engagement rings has increased within the last decade, many retailers offer a limited selection of amethyst jewelry. In order to ensure that a couple obtains what they are looking for, they may wish to purchase a loose stone and have it cut and placed in a setting of their choosing.

The expense of an amethyst rings will be based upon the size of the gemstone, the setting it is placed in, and other gemstones that are used in its design. Although the engagement ring will be more expensive if it is custom ordered, the cost of this type of ring generally does not exceed $1,000.00. An amethyst engagement ring is an affordable and durable investment for a couple who is looking for an alternative to the traditional diamond engagement ring. Its symbolism and vibrant coloring may be the perfect alternative for a couple that is looking for something slightly out of the ordinary.

Product Spotlight:

Up for sale is this unique amethyst ring. The ring is set with a natural AAA vivid-purple amethyst and accented with fine white diamonds. The ring is made of solid 14k white gold. The ring is available in all sizes including 1/2 and 1/4 sizes.
Price: $479.00

This beautiful ring is sure to make a statement. A 4.5 carat cushion cut green amethyst is set in crisp 14 karat white gold and flanked on both sides by ten sparkling diamonds. A matching pendant and earrings are also available at checkout to complete the set.

Gender: Female
Birthstone: February
Metal Weight (g): 4.0
Gem Weight (ct): 4.45
Diamond Certification: No
Age Segment: Adult

With so many engagement rings to look at and choose from, why not be different and choose an amethyst for the stone in your finance’s engagement ring? Amethysts are the birth stone for February and if her birthday is in February it will be doubly special to present her with an amethyst engagement ring. Greek mythology gives an account of how this beautiful stone came into existence and how it came by its rich purple color.

Amethysts also have deeply religious associations and many faiths use it as a symbol of spirituality, sincerity, and purity, everything that is important to a couple that is about to wed. Purple is also considered to represent royalty, so present the queen of your heart with an amethyst ring.

Most amethysts are some shade of purple, from light lilac to deep rich purple. However, amethysts can also come in shades of green. They are mined in Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, Argentina, Africa, and Australia. Amethysts rate a seven on the hardness scale, so they are a very good choice for jewelry worn on a daily basis (Opals are a one and Diamonds are a ten). Amethysts can be cut into any shape just like a diamond and can be placed into any type of setting.

Aside from being the birthstone for February, the amethyst is also the gemstone that represents the sixth year anniversary of your marriage. Although the amethyst is not nearly as expensive as the diamond, the price can vary due to the size and color of the gemstone you choose for the engagement ring.

Taking care of the amethyst stone is very easy, simply soap and water. Do not place in an ultrasonic cleaner, avoid rapid temperature changes, and avoid contact with household cleaners to ensure that your amethyst remains intact for many, many years.

Many of the big named jewelers will carry amethyst engagement rings, but if you have difficulty locating one that says “pick me”, take a look at the following websites:

• http://www.myjewelrysource.com/amethyst-engagement-aquamarine-engagement.htm

• http://www.jewelsforme.com/itemlist-main.asp?

• http://www.mysolitaire.com/gemstonerings/

• http://www.ampalian.com/jewellery/search/amethyst/?page=1&s=amethyst

• http://www.belljewels.com/Gemstone_Rings-Amethyst.html

Picking a ring a ring that says “I cherish you” is hard to do because there are so many choices out there. Hopefully this has helped you to narrow your search for an engagement ring to the beauty of the amethyst.

The author just celebrated her one year anniversary and sports a beautiful ascher cut ring. She and her husband put together the website: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect ring.