Author, although it's well composed...to really bring out the great lighting qualities of a gem-stone it's much better to use a non directional lighting pattern to make the really sparkle...just a hint to try for a future shot.

nice gem

I agree with the lighting comment, but a nice shot all the same

itsmymoment: I'm not quite sure if I understand what you mean by "non directional lighting" so would you mind explaining it to me?

The way I understand it: The direction of the light would not be visible therefore there would be no visible shadow either. Is this correct or am I understanding it wrong?

As for the other two comments, thank you very much.

spot on with the lighting, that is exactly what it is.........non directional means no directional shadows, even spread of light etc.

adeincyprus: Thank you, I think I'll give it a try today.

I like the shadow. Just would have like to see more color out of the gem.

Captgeo: The amethyst is rather light colored unlike most amethyst. So there isn't all that much of the color to be seen.

Ahhhh that explains it. Still love the shot.

Sorry author, have been out of state traveling for a few days, yes, you have the lighting definition spot-on...by placing a light that opposes the main light, you can really bring out the sparkle of a gemstone, look at advertising photos of gems in magazines and such and you will see great clairity and sparkle and almost in all caes no shadows, the shadows actually darken some of the facets and dull the gem...hope that helps, just experiment to find the best mix.

Nice sentiments, good shot and keep this pretty precious thing with you always.

itsmymoment: Don't worry about it. It's not like we're in any hurry to learn new things. I mean, no matter how hard we try we'll always find something new to learn, don't we?

I really should get myself to experiment with it more. So far I haven't really gotten myself to do that, sadly.

abhisarika44: I do, as long as I know I won't be doing anything that could damage it. I don't want it to get damaged either so I prefer keeping it safe for occasions where it can't get damaged unless something really bad happens.

Good shot! The projected shadow was a nice touch. GL!