Origin:
While amethyst deposits exist in various African countries, some regions are known for their exceptional quality:
Nigeria:
Color: Primarily known for deeper reddish-purple hues compared to amethysts from other African regions. This is due to a higher iron content.
Clarity: Generally, moderately included with visible fractures and imperfections. Finding eye-clean (flawless to the naked eye) amethyst from Nigeria is uncommon.
Crystal Formation: Crystals can range from well-formed to relatively blocky and can be smaller in size compared to amethysts from other African sources.
Zambia: Renowned for deep, vibrant purple amethysts with excellent clarity.
Namibia: Produces amethysts with a strong reddish hue and good transparency.
Madagascar: Offers a range of amethyst colors, including lavender and even rare green amethyst.
For deep, reddish-purple hues: Nigerian amethyst is preferable
Cutting and Clarity:
Expertly cut: The amethyst is cut to maximize its brilliance and fire (play of light within the gemstone)
High clarity: Ideally, the amethyst has minimal internal flaws that might affect its transparency and beauty.