Most of the amethyst sold in Pakistan is cut and priced with a man's silver ring in mind, which leaves women looking at stones that were never designed for the piece they want. This one is worth a look for a different reason: at 10.35 carats and Rs. 1,341 per carat it is large and well priced enough to carry a cocktail ring, and light enough in tone to work on a chain where a dark stone would read as a black dot.

The stone

10.35 carats — 11.37 ratti — faceted, body colour purple. Rs. 13,880, about Rs. 1,341 per carat, reference GS-000249. It is a single piece; there is no matching second stone.

Three ways women actually wear a stone this size

• Cocktail ring. The classic use. A 10 carat amethyst covers the width of most fingers, so the band can stay slim and let the stone do the work.
• Pendant. Hangs well on a fine chain without dragging. This is the choice if you are unsure of ring size or want something that suits more outfits.
• Statement piece for an occasion. Purple carries formal wear better than almost any other colour, and it does not clash with gold or silver.

Silver or gold?

Both work, and they do different things. White metal — 925 silver, white gold, platinum — sharpens a purple and makes it look cooler and more blue. Yellow gold warms it and brings out any red in the colour. If you are undecided, hold the stone against a silver bangle and a gold one in daylight; the difference is immediate and nobody can decide it for you.

Will a ring this size be comfortable?

It depends more on the mount than the stone. A low bezel with a smooth outline sits close to the finger and does not catch on fabric. High claw settings look dramatic but snag on clothing and hair. Tell us which you prefer when you ask for a quote on WhatsApp at +92 308 887 3888.

Is amethyst suitable for a gift?

It is the February birthstone and the traditional sixth wedding anniversary stone, which gives a gift a reason beyond the colour. Our birthstone guide covers both the month list and the rashi system used locally.

How do I care for it?

Amethyst is 7 on the Mohs scale — durable for regular wear. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Keep it away from perfume sprayed directly onto the stone, from bleach, and from long hours in direct sunlight, which can pale purple quartz over years. The amethyst care guide goes into more detail.

Buying it

Shape and measurements have not been recorded for this piece; ask and we will measure it. Flat Rs. 500 delivery anywhere in Pakistan, insured and tracked, dispatched in one to two working days. Cash on Delivery, seven days to return it unused, certificate of authenticity on request. The rest of the amethyst collection is worth comparing before you decide.

This particular stone

This listing is one natural amethyst, known in Urdu as Jamunia, with a weight of 10.35 Carat. Its price is Rs. 13,880 — roughly Rs. 1,341 for each carat. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference GS-000249 when you message us about it. The photographs show this exact stone, so what arrives at your door is the piece you chose on screen.

From six carats up a stone becomes the centre of attention. It wants a broader shank or a secure claw setting and suits an occasion ring, a signet or a centre pendant. Clean natural material of this size turns up far less often, and the per-carat rate reflects that.

On the Mohs scale amethyst rates 7. It handles daily wear, but a hard knock can still nick an exposed corner, so a protective setting is a sensible choice. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and keep it away from abrasive cleaners and high heat.

Whoever you buy amethyst from, make sure of three things: the stone is natural rather than lab-grown, glass or glass-filled; any treatment is stated in writing; and the weight quoted is the weight of the finished stone. We check every amethyst for those three points before it is listed, a certificate is available on request, and because you pay on delivery you can look at the stone — or have it tested — before any money changes hands.

We sell natural stones only and inspect each one before it is listed. Treatment for this stone: Treatment not tested. Certificate available on request. As general background (not a statement about this stone): Amethyst is usually untreated, though some stones are heated to lighten the colour. Ask us on WhatsApp and we will tell you what we know about this exact stone; independent lab testing is available on request.

A certificate of authenticity is available on request for this stone, and independent laboratory testing can be arranged. Because you pay on delivery, you can also take the stone to a lab of your choice within the 7-day return window. Read more on our authenticity page.