Find amethyst at the Crater

By Waymon Cox

  Greetings from Crater of Diamonds State Park! Other than diamonds, amethyst is one of the most popular minerals that visitors enjoy searching for at the park. Known as the traditional February birthstone, most amethyst at the Crater is found on the south end of the diamond search area, in a section called Canary Hill.

 Amethyst is a variety of quartz that features a purple hue. Unlike diamonds, amethyst crystals run in veins through the search area, so the chances of finding two or more in the same place are fairly good! Amethyst at the Crater is typically a lighter shade, though it can range in color from pinkish purple to deep violet, due to iron impurities and other trace elements in the crystal. Iron is also prominent in many other minerals from the Crater, including agate, jasper, hematite, and magnetite.

 For centuries, amethyst was a highly-valued gemstone, comparable to diamonds and rubies. Cut and polished amethyst gems adorned the crown jewels of numerous countries. Many civilizations also found value in the perceived healing and protective qualities of amethyst. Once considered an antidote for drunkenness in ancient Greece, amethyst’s name comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” which means, “not drunken.” Ancient Egyptians used amethyst to guard against fear. It was also once used to ward off insomnia and relieve headaches. Catholic priests often still wear amethyst as a symbol of celibacy, piety, and spiritual wisdom.

 Although amethyst lost much of its gem value in the 19^th century, after vast deposits were discovered in South America, it continues to be sought after for its beautiful color and shine. Amethyst is just one of many semiprecious stones found at Crater of Diamonds State Park that can make for a unique and memorable experience!

Most recent significant precipitation: February 4, 2014

Diamond finds for the week of February 9, 2014 (100 points = one carat):

February 9 - Adam Hardin, Norton, OH, 6 pt. white; Brent Edwards, Battle Creek, MI, 15 pt. brown

February 13 - Adam Hardin, Norton, OH, 5 pt. white; 17 pt. white

February 14 - Timothy Gray, Royal, AR, 8 pt. white, 12 pt. yellow, 29 pt. white; Adam Hardin, Norton, OH, 12 pt. white