Why Is My Amethyst Turning Brown?

Last Updated on 11 months by Francis

Amethyst is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. It is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from pale lilac to deep purple. However, sometimes amethyst can turn brown, which can be a cause of concern for those who own it. In this article, we will explore why amethyst turns brown and how to prevent it from happening.

Amethyst is a popular variety of quartz gemstone that is typically known for its vibrant purple color. However, if your amethyst is starting to turn brown, it may raise concerns and questions about the gemstone’s appearance and quality. In this context, we will explore the possible reasons behind the discoloration of amethyst and how to prevent it from happening.

Understanding Amethyst

Amethyst is a variety of quartz that contains iron, aluminum, and other trace minerals. Its purple color comes from the presence of iron and manganese. Amethyst is widely used in jewelry and has been prized for its beauty for centuries. It is also believed to have spiritual and healing properties.

Formation of Amethyst

Amethyst is formed in cavities within volcanic rocks. It is created when silica-rich fluids flow through the cavities and crystallize over time. The iron and other trace minerals in the fluid give amethyst its purple color.

Properties of Amethyst

Amethyst is a powerful crystal that is believed to have many healing properties. It is said to promote calmness, balance, and peace. Amethyst is also believed to help with addiction and insomnia. It is often used in meditation and crystal healing.

Why Does Amethyst Turn Brown?

Amethyst can turn brown for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is exposure to heat. When amethyst is exposed to high temperatures, it can change color. This is because the iron in the crystal is oxidized, which changes its color from purple to brown.

Another reason why amethyst turns brown is exposure to sunlight. When amethyst is exposed to sunlight for long periods, it can bleach out the color and turn brown. This is because the ultraviolet light in sunlight breaks down the iron in the crystal, which changes its color.

Finally, amethyst can turn brown due to exposure to chemicals. When amethyst comes into contact with chemicals such as bleach, it can change color. This is because the chemicals react with the iron in the crystal, causing it to change color.

How to Prevent Amethyst from Turning Brown

There are several steps you can take to prevent your amethyst from turning brown. The first step is to avoid exposing it to high temperatures. This means that you should avoid leaving your amethyst in direct sunlight or near sources of heat such as radiators or fireplaces.

The second step is to avoid exposing your amethyst to chemicals. This means that you should avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach or cleaning products that contain bleach. If you need to clean your amethyst, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water.

The third step is to store your amethyst properly. This means that you should store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You should also avoid storing your amethyst with other gemstones, as they can scratch or damage the crystal.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from pale lilac to deep purple, and it is widely used in jewelry and has been prized for its beauty for centuries. However, sometimes amethyst can turn brown due to exposure to heat, sunlight, or chemicals. To prevent amethyst from turning brown, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals. If it has already turned brown, it can be restored by cleaning it with a soft cloth and mild soap and water, exposing it to sunlight, or placing it in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water.

How to Restore Brown Amethyst

If your amethyst has already turned brown, there are several steps you can take to restore its color. The first step is to clean the crystal using a soft cloth and mild soap and water. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the brown color.

The second step is to expose the amethyst to sunlight. This will help to bleach out the brown color and restore the crystal’s purple color. However, you should be careful not to expose the amethyst to too much sunlight, as this can cause it to bleach out completely.

The third step is to place the amethyst in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. This will help to remove any remaining brown color and restore the crystal’s purple color. However, you should be careful not to leave the amethyst in the solution for too long, as this can damage the crystal.

FAQs for the topic: Why is my amethyst turning brown?

What causes amethyst to turn brown?

There are several reasons that could cause an amethyst to turn brown. One of the most common causes is heat, which can change the color of amethysts from purple to brown. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can also cause the gemstone to fade and lose its color. Other possible causes include exposure to chemicals, prolonged storage, and improper cleaning methods.

Can an amethyst turn from brown to purple again?

It’s possible, but it depends on the cause of the brown coloration. If the brownish color was caused by exposure to heat or sunlight, it may be difficult to restore the original purple color. However, if the brown coloration was caused by exposure to chemicals or improper storage, the gemstone may be able to be restored to its original color through professional cleaning and treatment.

How can I prevent my amethyst from turning brown?

To prevent an amethyst from turning brown, it’s important to keep it away from heat and sunlight as much as possible. Additionally, it’s important to avoid exposing the gemstone to chemicals or storing it in places with high humidity. Proper cleaning methods are also important to prevent damage to the gemstone and to ensure that it maintains its original color and shine for years to come.

What should I do if my amethyst turns brown?

If your amethyst turns brown, it’s important to identify the cause of the coloration. If it was caused by exposure to heat or sunlight, there may be nothing that can be done to restore the original color. However, if the cause was exposure to chemicals or improper storage, the gemstone may be able to be restored to its original color through professional cleaning and treatment. It’s important to consult with a trusted jeweler or gemstone specialist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.