Is Aura Amethyst Natural Gemstone?

What Is Aura Amethyst?

Aura amethyst is a form of amethyst that has undergone a special treatment process to give it a vivid iridescent surface. The gemstone’s core is natural amethyst, a popular variety of quartz known for its rich purple hues. This natural amethyst is then bonded with a thin layer of precious metals such as gold, titanium, or platinum to create the gemstone’s signature sheen. The result is a mesmerizing play of colors across the stone’s surface, often referred to as an “aura” due to its ethereal glow.

While aura amethyst retains the physical properties of natural amethyst, its enhanced appearance is the result of human intervention. This raises the question of whether it should be classified as a natural gemstone or as a treated, altered stone.

The Process Behind Aura Amethyst

Aura amethyst is created using a process known as vapor deposition or electrostatic bonding. This technique involves placing natural amethyst into a vacuum chamber where vaporized precious metals are bonded to the surface of the stone. This layer of metal adheres to the amethyst, producing the iridescent effect that defines aura gemstones.

The specific metals used in this process can vary, but gold and titanium are the most common. When gold is used, it often results in warmer, golden tones, while titanium tends to create cooler, blue and purple iridescence. The metals fuse with the stone at a molecular level, resulting in a durable and permanent finish that doesn’t wear off or fade over time.

This process enhances the visual appeal of the amethyst, but because it involves significant human intervention, aura amethyst is generally not classified as a “natural” gemstone in the strictest sense. It is better described as a treated or enhanced gemstone, where the core remains natural, but the surface is artificially altered.

See also: What Is The Amethyst Aura Stone?

Is Aura Amethyst Considered Natural?

When determining whether a gemstone is natural, the key factor is whether it has undergone any human manipulation beyond standard cutting and polishing. A fully natural gemstone is one that forms naturally within the earth and is only shaped by cutting and faceting to prepare it for use in jewelry. In the case of aura amethyst, while the core of the stone is indeed natural amethyst, the addition of the metal coating means that it has been significantly altered by human intervention.

Therefore, aura amethyst is not considered a fully natural gemstone. Instead, it is classified as an enhanced or treated stone. This distinction is important in the world of gemstones, as it affects both the value of the stone and its classification within the jewelry market. Treated stones, while beautiful and often more vibrant than their untreated counterparts, are typically less valuable than fully natural stones due to the fact that their appearance is partially the result of human intervention.

That said, aura amethyst still holds significant appeal for many jewelry lovers, thanks to its unique beauty and the skill required to create it.

The Appeal of Aura Amethyst in Jewelry

Despite not being fully natural, aura amethyst has become increasingly popular in the jewelry world. Its iridescent sheen sets it apart from traditional amethyst, making it a striking and eye-catching choice for rings, pendants, earrings, and other accessories. The rainbow-like shimmer of the aura coating gives the stone a mystical, otherworldly quality that appeals to those who seek something different and unique in their jewelry.

One of the major draws of aura amethyst is its ability to shift colors depending on the light and angle from which it is viewed. This chameleon-like quality makes aura amethyst pieces particularly dynamic and versatile, as they can appear to change hues in different lighting conditions. This versatility allows aura amethyst jewelry to complement a wide range of styles, from casual and bohemian to more formal and elegant.

In addition, the bonding process that creates aura amethyst is a permanent enhancement, meaning that the stone’s colorful surface will not fade or wear off over time. This durability adds to its appeal, ensuring that aura amethyst pieces remain as vibrant and beautiful as the day they were created.

Aura Amethyst and Spiritual Significance

Beyond its aesthetic beauty, aura amethyst is also prized for its metaphysical properties. Natural amethyst has long been associated with spiritual and healing practices, often regarded as a stone of protection, purification, and spiritual wisdom. The addition of the aura coating is believed by some to amplify these metaphysical properties, enhancing the stone’s ability to promote emotional balance, peace, and clarity.

The rainbow-like aura effect is thought to represent the connection between the physical and spiritual realms, making aura amethyst particularly popular among those who are drawn to gemstones for their spiritual significance. Many people believe that aura amethyst helps align and balance the chakras, especially the crown chakra, which is associated with higher consciousness and spiritual awakening.

While these beliefs may not be supported by scientific evidence, they contribute to the allure of aura amethyst among those who practice crystal healing or who are drawn to gemstones for their spiritual energy.

Aura Amethyst vs. Natural Amethyst: Which Is Better?

When choosing between aura amethyst and natural amethyst, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both stones have their own unique beauty and appeal, but they offer different qualities depending on what the buyer is looking for.

Natural amethyst, with its rich purple hues and history as one of the most beloved gemstones, appeals to those who prefer a classic, unaltered gemstone. Its status as a fully natural stone also makes it more valuable in the eyes of traditional gemstone collectors and purists. Amethyst has been used in jewelry for centuries, and its deep, regal color continues to be a favorite in fine jewelry.

Aura amethyst, on the other hand, is ideal for those who are drawn to more modern, unconventional designs. The iridescent coating gives aura amethyst an otherworldly glow that sets it apart from traditional gemstones. It offers a bold and colorful alternative for those who want something unique and statement-making in their jewelry collection.

In terms of value, natural amethyst is generally more prized due to its fully natural composition. However, the intricate process and craftsmanship involved in creating aura amethyst can also command a higher price, especially for high-quality pieces that exhibit a particularly vivid or unique color shift.

How to Care for Aura Amethyst

Caring for aura amethyst is relatively simple, but it does require a few extra precautions to ensure that the stone retains its iridescent finish. Since the aura coating is made of precious metals, it is essential to avoid exposing the stone to harsh chemicals, abrasives, or excessive heat, as these can damage the surface of the gemstone.

To clean aura amethyst, it is recommended to use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning, as these methods can strip away the metal coating. Similarly, be cautious when wearing aura amethyst jewelry during activities that may result in the stone being scratched or knocked, as the metal layer, while durable, can still be damaged by rough treatment.

Proper storage is also important to protect aura amethyst from scratches. It is best to store the gemstone separately from other jewelry, preferably in a soft pouch or jewelry box, to prevent it from coming into contact with harder stones that could cause scratches.

Is Aura Amethyst Worth the Investment?

For those looking to invest in gemstones, the value of aura amethyst depends on individual priorities. From a collector’s standpoint, fully natural gemstones tend to hold greater long-term value due to their rarity and unaltered composition. Aura amethyst, being a treated stone, does not typically appreciate in value in the same way that natural, untreated gemstones do.

However, for those who are more interested in the aesthetic and emotional appeal of a gemstone, aura amethyst offers a unique and beautiful option that is sure to stand out in any collection. The skill and craftsmanship required to create aura amethyst, combined with its dazzling appearance, make it a valuable and attractive choice for jewelry lovers who appreciate artistry and creativity.

Conclusion

While aura amethyst is not considered a fully natural gemstone, it remains a captivating and desirable addition to any jewelry collection. The process that creates its iridescent surface is an enhancement rather than a natural phenomenon, but this does not detract from its beauty or appeal. Aura amethyst is a perfect example of how modern technology can enhance the natural world, creating something both unique and mesmerizing.

For those who appreciate its ethereal glow and shifting colors, aura amethyst offers a striking alternative to traditional gemstones, blending natural beauty with human craftsmanship to create a truly one-of-a-kind gem