Green amethyst, also known as prasiolite or green quartz, is a delicate and enchanting gemstone prized for its subtle green hue. Rarely seen compared to its purple cousin, amethyst, prasiolite adds a touch of understated elegance to jewellery, making it a favourite for unique rings, earrings, and pendants.
In this guide, we’ll explore what green amethyst is, how it’s formed, its meanings, and why it makes such a stunning addition to jewellery collections.
What Is Green Amethyst (Prasiolite)?
Green amethyst is actually green quartz — the same chemical family as purple amethyst. While purple amethyst occurs naturally, green amethyst is most often created by heat-treating amethyst. Despite the treatment, it is still classified as a natural gemstone, with the same hardness and durability as its purple counterpart.
Most people still refer to it as “green amethyst” because it’s a name that’s widely recognised in the jewellery world.
How Green Amethyst Is Formed
Prasiolite is created by heating amethyst to carefully controlled temperatures between 475–750°C. During this process, the stone’s purple colour gradually transforms — first to yellow, then orange or brown (citrine), and finally to a soft green shade.
This transformation only occurs if the amethyst contains traces of iron, which is why not all amethyst can produce green quartz.
Where Does Green Amethyst Come From?
The amethyst used to make green quartz typically comes from Brazil, where iron-rich amethyst is abundant. While some green stones are formed naturally due to geological heat, the majority are artificially heat-treated to achieve the beautiful green colour we recognise today.
The Origins of Its Name
The term “prasiolite” comes from Greek:
-
Prason = leek (referring to the green colour)
-
Lithos = stone
So prasiolite literally means “leek-coloured stone”!
Fun fact: the Greeks named purple amethyst amethytos, meaning “free from drunkenness,” as they believed the stone could prevent intoxication.
Colour & Hardness
Green amethyst has a delicate, transparent green hue, making it versatile and subtle yet eye-catching. Its soft tone pairs beautifully with other light gemstones such as morganite, iolite, and citrine.
On the Mohs hardness scale, it scores 7, which makes it durable enough for daily wear in rings, earrings, and pendants.
Meanings and Qualities of Green Amethyst
Green amethyst is associated with:
-
Connection to nature and a sense of well-being
-
Self-respect, healing, and luck
-
Alignment with the solar plexus, heart, throat, and third-eye chakras
It’s considered a gemstone that bridges emotional balance and personal growth, making it more than just a beautiful accessory.
Green Amethyst in Jewellery
Green amethyst jewellery is striking because it’s uncommon — and its gentle green tone makes it versatile for both casual and formal wear. Designers set it in silver, white gold, and yellow gold, often pairing it with diamonds or other quartz-family stones like citrine for added sparkle.
Some popular styles include:
-
Prasiolite drop earrings – delicate and elegant for daily wear
-
Green amethyst and diamond halo rings – a unique twist on classic designs
-
Heart pendants and statement pieces – perfect for gifts or self-indulgence
Why You’ll Love Green Amethyst
Whether you’re drawn to its soft green beauty, the healing properties, or the versatility in jewellery design, green amethyst is a gemstone that stands out for all the right reasons. Rare, elegant, and meaningful, it’s a stone that makes jewellery both personal and timeless.
Shop Green Amethyst Jewellery
Explore our curated collection of green amethyst rings, earrings, and pendants — the perfect pieces to add subtle colour, charm, and meaning to your jewellery collection.
Leave a comment