Real vs Fake Amethyst Crystals: How to Spot the Difference

Amethyst is a soothing stone to look at, all thanks to the purple color. But another reason is the said healing property of this gemstone that can offer mental clarity and peace. No wonder why it has remained so timeless throughout the ages. If you're planning to buy amethyst for jewelry making, then it's crucial to pick the real stones. Since the demand for this purple stone is at an all-time high, it has also led to the mass availability of synthetic or glass fakes of amethyst. So, how to get the real deal, especially as a first-time buyer? Well, we'll answer that in this blog.

Why Some People Sell Fake Amethyst

The demand for amethyst has increased a lot. With limited supply of high-quality stones, some sellers turn to dyed quartz, glass, or even plastic imitations. If you’re buying gemstones for the first time, then go for reputable brands as they prioritize authenticity, offer detailed product description, and can provide gem certification on request for genuine amethyst identification.

Why Identifying Genuine Amethyst Matters

Amethyst’s beauty is only part of its charm. The energy, durability, and value of the stone all depend on authenticity. Real amethyst holds up better in jewelry, carries its unique crystal energy, and retains its worth over time.

On the other hand, if a stone is synthetic, then it won’t offer any healing benefits. Plus, you can easily tell from their appearance that it’s not a real stone.

And while we’re talking about crystal authenticity, if you’re also looking to diversify your collection, you might want to buy moonstone crystal for its beautiful shimmer and emotional balancing qualities. But more on that later.

How to Tell If Amethyst Is Real

Spotting a fake stone isn’t always obvious. This is because some imitations are incredibly well-made. But there are a few reliable checks you can do:

1. Look at the Color

The color of stone should vary between lavender to violet tones. You can also notice slight color variations present throughout the surface of the stone, and that’s a good sign. If it appears too uniform or consistent with an overly bright purple hue, then it’s a sign of synthetic dyeing.

2. Check for Bubbles

Under a magnifying glass, if you see tiny bubbles inside, it’s likely glass, not quartz. Natural amethyst may have inclusions, but never air bubbles.

3. Test the Hardness

Amethyst (being a variety of quartz) possesses a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Thus, it won’t easily get scratched. If you’re shopping from the best place to buy loose gemstones online, then you might get information about the durability of the stone on their website.

4. Temperature Test

Real stones are cool to the touch and take longer to warm in your hand. On the other hand, the glass fakes warm up quickly.

5. Weight & Feel

Natural stones are denser than fakes. If it feels unusually light for its size, be cautious.

Where Amethyst Shines Best

Now that you know how to spot a fake, it’s easy to appreciate why real amethyst is so sought after. From delicate pendant necklaces to cocktail rings, this gemstone complements almost any outfit.

If you want to buy an amethyst specifically for jewelry making, then go for rough-cut stones as they bring a natural, earthy feel to the wearable piece. You can also consider other polished gems for a sleek and refined look.

What About Raw Amethyst?

If you prefer raw over polished, spotting fakes is slightly easier. Genuine raw amethyst crystals have visible, naturally formed points and surfaces that glass imitations can’t perfectly replicate. The color may be more subtle compared to polished stones, and the texture will feel more rugged. That’s one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between real vs fake amethyst. You should always aim for a stone with color that looks quite natural rather than a too perfect one. 

The Final Words

When it comes to identifying a real amethyst, knowledge is your best defense. 

By learning the key differences such color variation, inclusions, hardness, temperature, you can shop with confidence. So, the next time make sure to spend some time in research and compare the pieces online. Go for verified sellers, inspect your stones, and trust both your eyes and your instincts.