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Quartz is found in abundance from
every corner of the earth. In its purest form, quartz is colorless, but
it is most prized for its purple variety- amethyst. Purple has long been
considered a royal color, so it is not surprising that amethyst has been
so much in demand throughout history. Fine amethysts are featured in the
British Crown Jewels and were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and
Egyptian royalty. Great thinkers like Leonardo da Vinci believed that
amethyst could dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence. Amethyst
is the traditional birthstone for the month of February. Brazil is the
primary source of amethyst, and Zambia is a significant source as well.
Darker hues of amethyst are more rare and valuable. |