# amethyst

/ˈæmɪθɪst/ (US) · /ˈæmɪθˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amethyst
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a purple stone that is used in jewelry. It is a type of quartz that can range from a light lavender to a deep violet color.

For teachers: a violet or purple variety of quartz, often used as a gemstone. The coloration is typically attributed to irradiation, impurities of iron, and the presence of trace elements.

## Examples

- She wore a beautiful ring with a large amethyst.
- The museum's mineral collection features a massive geode lined with deep purple amethyst crystals.
- While historically ranked among the most precious gemstones, the discovery of large deposits in Brazil during the nineteenth century made amethyst significantly more accessible for contemporary jewelry design.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the mineral or color; countable when referring to individual gemstones or specific shades.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.