- Mintage Limit - 999
- Treasures of the World Amethys
- Embellished with a real Amethyst insert
- Comes with capsule, Certificate of Authenticity and a presentation case
Amethyst is a well known mineral and gemstone. It is the purple variety of the mineral Quartz, and its most valuable and prized variety. Its name derives from the Greek "amethystos", which means "not drunken", as Amethyst in antiquity was thought to ward off drunkenness. The color of some Amethyst specimens from certain localities slowly fade upon prolonged exposure to light. When used as a gemstone, Amethyst is often heat treated to deepen the color, or to transform it into Citrine. Some varieties may also change to a light green color, which is given the trade name "Prasiolite", or "Green Amethyst", as it is more commonly known in the gem trade.
Amethyst is most prevalent as small stubby pyramidal crystals, although several localities such as the Mexican occurrences are well-known for producing elegantly tall prismatic crystals, which are very highly regarded by collectors. Amethyst also forms the internal lining of geodes, some of which can be over 10 feet tall and weighing several tons.
Reverse:
The coin’s reverse portrays a mine, from which the precious stones are extracted from the depths of the Earth. Embedded into the coin is a real Amethyst. The coin has gone through a special minting process to give it an "antiqued" appearance.
Obverse:
The coin, which is issued as legal tender under the authority of the Republic of Palau, portrays the Palau Coat of Arms.