Clusters are druzy crusts that line the fissures formed in ancient metamorphic rocks. The crystals are usually colored throughout, unlike the Brazilian crystals, and form with a multicolored agate that often contains reds, yellows and oranges. Often amethyst- coated stalactites and other unusual formations occur inside these vugs. However, the interior color and clarity are excellent and polished slices and carvings as well as many gemstones are prized and admired. They are generally a brownish purple and patchy in color.
Crystals are dark but rather small.
Because of the patchyness of the color distribution in the crystals, Amethyst is often cut as brilliant round cuts to maximize the color. Other cuts can be used when the color is better distributed. The color purple is traditionally the color of royalty and amethyst has been used since the dawn of history to adorn the rich and powerful monarchs and rulers. Today, amethyst is a lovely and affordable gemstone that is fortunately available in a wide variety of cut and uncut stones that we can all possess and admire. Amethyst is only one of several quartz varieties.