Amethyst is a member of the Quartz family. It is one of the first stones to which people are attracted when they begin exploring the mineral kingdom. Traditionally, a birthstone for February, Amethyst is a semiprecious stone and one of several forms of quartz. Throughout the centuries, it has been admired for its beauty and powers to soothe and kindle the mind and emotions. It comes in shades that range from deep purple to light pinkish violet, with reddish and blue as its secondary hues.
The Physical Properties of Amethyst
Amethyst is violet due to iron impurities, the presence of trace elements, and irradiation. It is mined for in Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, and several African nations.
Because of its durability, it us used in jewelry, such as bracelets, pendants, earring, and rings. Amethyst has glassy or vitreous luster, a trigonal crystal system, and is transparent to translucent.
The History of Amethyst
In Ancient Greece, people considered that it prevented intoxication and they carved drinking vessels from it. Its name itself comes from the Koine Greek – amethysts, meaning “not,” and methysko, meaning “intoxicate.” European soldiers, on the other hand, wore amulets made of amethyst as protection in battle, because they thought that it helped them remain cool-headed and to heal. Amethyst is considered sacred to the Buddha by Tibetans, who make prayer beads from it. During the 1800s, the vividness of the stone was thought to come from the presence of manganese. Today, the color is believed to be from an organic source because heat can vary it.
The Lore of Amethyst
It is interesting to discover how many spiritual properties attributed to Amethyst in the past centuries are similar to those attributed today.
One of the most common beliefs is that it can help in controlling overindulgence and giving up unhealthy habits.
Amethyst was also thought to protect against thieves, ward off violent death and peril, and to attract justice. It is thought to guard against negativity, and the stone transmutes that negative energy into love. Some ancient stories told, were that people who wear an Amethyst stone are said to have incredible magnetism and pleasing personalities.
The Metaphysical Properties of Amethyst
It is said, Amethyst helps to develop the intuitive abilities by increasing the natural process in the right brain. It brings out and strengthens motivation, instinct, and raises attentions to a higher spiritual level.
Also recognized as the stone that calms fears, soothes impatience and anger, and provides a comforting effect. An amulet for travelers that protects against harm, danger, sickness, and thieves.
Amethyst is placed on the Crown Chakra during meditation to increase confidence and concentration. It balances mental, emotional, and physical bodies by connecting them to the spiritual body.
