Skip to content
Hey, crystal lovers and jewelry aficionados! If you're like me, you adore the rich, purple elegance of amethyst.
It’s one of those gemstones that feels luxurious yet approachable—perfect for rings, necklaces, bracelets, or even just as a decorative piece on your desk.
But here’s the thing: not all amethysts are created equal. Some aren’t even real!
Today, I’m sharing my personal tips and tricks on how to tell if amethyst is real.
Whether you’re buying amethyst jewelry or simply curious about the stones you already own, this guide will help you separate the genuine treasures from the imposters. Grab a coffee (or tea, no judgment), and let’s dive in!
Why Is Real Amethyst So Special?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of spotting fakes, let’s talk about why amethyst is worth the hype. This quartz variety is renowned for its gorgeous shades of purple, ranging from soft lavender to deep, royal hues.
But it’s not just a pretty face!
Historically, amethyst has been associated with clarity, calmness, and spiritual growth. It’s said to help with stress relief and even enhance intuition.
That’s why it’s so popular in both jewelry and crystal healing circles.
Of course, the demand for amethyst has led to imitations flooding the market. But don’t worry—I’ve got your back.
Step 1: Look at the Color
One of the easiest ways to identify real amethyst is by its color. Real amethyst usually has a consistent purple hue, but there are subtle variations.
What to Look For:
- Natural Variations: Real amethyst isn’t one flat shade of purple. You’ll notice slight differences in tone, with some areas being lighter or darker.
- No “Too Perfect” Purple: If the stone is a uniform, bright purple that looks almost too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine amethyst has a natural, slightly uneven appearance.
Warning Signs of Fakes:
- Glass imitations often have an overly vibrant purple color that lacks depth.
- Synthetic amethyst may look flawless but feel “off” when compared to natural stones.
Step 2: Check for Inclusions
Real amethyst often contains tiny inclusions or imperfections, which are a sign that it formed naturally in the earth.
These inclusions might look like small lines, bubbles, or cloudy spots inside the stone.
What to Look For:
- Hold the stone up to the light. Real amethyst will have slight imperfections that give it character.
- Completely clear stones are rare and may indicate a fake or lab-grown amethyst.
But What About High-Quality Amethyst?
Don’t get me wrong—top-tier amethyst can be relatively inclusion-free. However, even high-grade stones typically have some natural features under magnification.
Step 3: Test the Hardness
Amethyst is a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it’s relatively durable. This makes it resistant to scratches from materials with a lower hardness level, like glass or plastic.
DIY Scratch Test:
- Use a small, inconspicuous area of the stone.
- Try to scratch it gently with something softer, like a coin. If the stone scratches easily, it’s not real amethyst.
Caution: Don’t go overboard with this test, especially if you’re testing a piece of jewelry you care about!
Step 4: Feel the Weight and Temperature
Real gemstones, including amethyst, feel cool to the touch and have a solid, substantial weight compared to fake counterparts made of glass or plastic.
What to Do:
- Hold the amethyst in your hand. Real stones will feel cool even after you’ve been holding them for a while.
- Compare the weight to another item of similar size. Fake amethyst made from plastic will feel unnaturally light.
Step 5: UV Light Test
Here’s a fun one: real amethyst often glows a pale bluish or white color under UV light. This isn’t a definitive test, but it’s a good indicator.
How to Test:
- Shine a UV light on the stone in a dark room.
- If it doesn’t fluoresce at all, it might not be real amethyst.
Step 6: Ask for Documentation
When in doubt, ask the seller for proof of authenticity. Reputable jewelers will often provide certificates of authenticity or detailed descriptions of the stone’s origin.
Red Flags:
- Sellers who can’t answer basic questions about the stone.
- Prices that seem too good to be true. A high-quality amethyst piece will have a price that reflects its value.
Personal Experience: My “Fake Amethyst” Story
Here’s a quick (and slightly embarrassing) story. I once bought a beautiful “amethyst” bracelet from a market stall while on vacation.
It was so cheap, I didn’t think twice. Later, I did the UV light test, and guess what? No glow.
Turns out it was just dyed glass. Lesson learned: always double-check before buying!
FAQs About Amethyst
1. How can I tell if my amethyst is fake?
Look for overly vibrant or uniform color, lack of inclusions, and a light or plastic feel. Conduct a scratch or UV light test for additional confirmation.
2. Are synthetic amethysts bad?
Not at all! They can still be beautiful and durable, but they lack the natural charm and value of genuine stones.
3. Is real amethyst expensive?
It depends on the quality. Lower-grade amethysts are quite affordable, while high-quality, deep purple stones can be pricier.
4. Can I trust online sellers?
Yes, but only if they’re reputable. Look for clear product descriptions, customer reviews, and authenticity guarantees.
5. What should I do if I’m unsure about my amethyst?
Take it to a gemologist or jeweler for a professional evaluation.
