Natural Amethyst crystals have been a source of joy throughout history, used in fine jewelry, craftwork, and spiritual arts for centuries. This is because the lovely purple shades of this Quartz variant are associated with luxury, royalty, and a steady mind. It's no accident that the gemstone's name is derived from the ancient Greek word for "not intoxicated" -- Amethyst was once believed to prevent drunkenness, leading it to be used in pitchers and decanters. Today, Amethyst is still known for its soothing qualities and it is often kept in the bedroom to promote restful slumber or stress relief. While the deep, dark plum shades remain the most popular, lighter shades of Amethyst have plenty of devotees, with many enjoying the banded look of Chevron Amethyst or the pastel tones of Lavender Amethyst.

Amethyst Pronunciation: /æməθɪst/ (am-a-this-t)

Is There Such a Thing as Pink Amethyst? Green Amethyst? Black Amethyst?

While Pink Amethyst is a widely accepted name for a peachy-mauve variety of Quartz whose color derives from Hematite inclusion, many rock hounds will point out that it is not technically Amethyst, as a primary identifier of Amethyst is its purple coloration. It should be remembered that Amethyst itself is a variety of Quartz, and that its purple color occurs because of iron within the crystal lattice reacting to naturally occurring gamma irradiation. Informal names such as Green Amethyst or Black Amethyst, applied to Prasiolite and Moiron respectively, do not correctly categorize the way these stones grow or derive their color. So, while stones referred to as Pink Amethyst, Green Amethyst, and Black Amethyst are natural forms of Quartz, they are not technically Amethyst crystals even though they share some similarities in metaphysical properties.

The stone has always been given praise for its beauty. Praise, the proper word for a stone that was called by some "Venus's eyelid." Indeed, a good tyrian Amethyst geode had nearly unmatched beauty for most of its history. In fact, it was up in the ranks with rubies, sapphires, and even diamonds. It was, and still is, a cardinal gem of the purple variety. Even though more deposits have been found and lessened the rarity and value of amethyst, one only needs to take a glance at the stone to see why it reigned among kings, queens, and gods. A lot of people understood this, as Pliny the Elder wrote that many believed it would guarantee access to the king. That is less likely to be interpreted as a mystical property, rather owning amethyst was a symbol of status. In any case, the mystical properties were clear: many believed that wearing this stone would offer protection from inebriation. It was also believed that it could protect users from locust attacks.

George Frederick Kunz so happened to attribute amethyst to the name Arthur, a man who some consider to have been king of England at one point, but there is no definitive evidence to support this theory. This could be a coincidence. Though given amethyst's relationship to royalty, and the colour purple's relationship to royalty, this could have been intentional. Kunz also details the birthstones. Amethyst is considered to be the birthstone for the month of February. In fact, has been considered so for centuries among the Jews, Romans, Poles, Russians, and Italians. Alternatives were pearl and hyacinth, but were significantly less popular than amethyst in regards to birthstones. Kunz also writes of Greek literature, and that in a so-called gem city, monumental pieces of amethyst stood as altars. In short, amethyst has been, is, and always will be, loved by many for its beauty.

Egyptians used amethyst primarily for jewelry since their predynastic period. It is possible that they mined their amethyst, but sources indicate that this was around their “Middle Kingdom” period. During this period, there was considerable mining for the gemstone.  By the New Kingdom period, however, amethyst was less common, maybe caused by scarcity.  By the time of the Romans, amethyst became popular once more. The stones mined in Egypt could vary in hue greatly. Some were a deep purple, such as those found in Wadi el-Hudi. Or, they lack color almost entirely, such as those found in Gebel el-Asr. Since amethyst was hardly used outside of jewelry, it isn’t common to find them in other products from Egypt.

In the Middle Kingdom period, amethyst was called hesmen. The Middle Kingdom’s mining settlements were guarded.  Amethyst, when used for carvings, often took the form of a scarab. Beads were especially popular too. Gold was used for plating scarab carvings.

Greeks during the Bronze Age interacted with amethyst and other gemstones often.  Some gemstones were important for spiritual and religious affairs. But many were simply used in jewelry. Amethyst could be laid in cups, tombs, or used rings, necklaces, etc. 

The Byzantines were fond of the stone, much like the Egyptians. Many Byzantine necklaces were adorned with the purple stone. Similar to the Egyptians, beads were quite popular.  Indeed, amethyst was likely imported from Egypt, along with other countries, to the Byzantine Empire. There is evidence to suggest that the amethyst brought to the Mediterranean was also from the southern regions of Asia. Over time, the commonality of amethyst beads declined.

The Maya also worked with amethyst. The minor deity Ix Tub Tun would “spit” gemstones and was the goddess of those who worked with jade and amethyst.  The Aztec had talented craftsman who worked with a variety of metals and gemstones, including amethyst, to produce high-end jewels and accessories. Unlike other cultures that made amethyst jewelry first and other products second, the Aztecs had plenty lapidary art of amethyst, along with other gemstones. 

 

Amethyst is a beautiful stone that promotes power from within yourself, attracts power where it is needed in your life, provides calming & soothing energies, protects against malicious curses, hexes, psychic attacks. Amethyst is also a stone for those who are in love and who want to strengthen the bonds of love between themselves and their lover. Amethyst resonates with your inner balance which will calm any temperament or mood issues and provide a fair & balanced atmosphere for you. It is a wonderful stone to work with during times of stress, contemplation, or meditation. You can also place the stone under your pillow or bed to provide a more restful night of sleep.

Amethyst is a purple stone that can be from a lavender to deep purple in color. Amethyst can be banded, translucent or clouded. Some pieces of amethyst are purple in color and have fractures or lines within the translucent stone.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz. What makes it purple, exactly? Amethyst is purple because of the gamma irradiation. That settles that, right? Well, mostly. Read more about the controversy of Amethyst that was sparked by social media.

The rarest type of amethyst is a deep purple Russian amethyst, which is also known as the Siberian amethyst.

Aside from those previously mentioned, amethyst has some neat metaphysical properties. You might ask "what does amethyst do?" Amethyst is a calming and soothing stone that is capable of providing protection against more malicious hexes and curses. As a stone that deals with power within, amethyst is a great stone for correcting, or maintaining, the balance within you. Amethyst meaning:

• Stone of Protection
• Stone for Power Within
• Stone for Balance
• Stone for Dreams
• Stone for Meditation

Amethyst healing properties echo those of the past. Balance and temperament are likely derived from the quality of sobriety attributed to the stone. Protection, from the fact that it was believed to offer protection to soldiers and grant them a victory in war. The dream aspect could come from the Breastplate of Aaron and the relationship with amethyst, called "aḥlamah." This name for amethyst could have influenced the belief that the stone did have dream related properties, as the name is likely derived from the word "halom," which has been translated into dreams. 

The properties of protection, balance, power from within, dreams, and it use during meditation are all wonderful and can apply to just about everyone. It is no surprise that the stone is loved by so many.

How to Cleanse Amethyst Stones and Jewelry

Amethyst, revered for its health and wellness benefits, requires proper care to maintain its potency. Cleansing your Amethyst is essential for ensuring it continues to function effectively. Here’s how you can keep your Amethyst stones and jewelry in optimal condition:

1. Sound Cleansing

Crystals often absorb energy, which can disrupt their natural frequency. To reset this frequency, sound cleansing is an effective method. You can use:

• Vocal Toning: Hold your Amethyst, take a deep breath, and let out a tonal sound. Imagine infusing the crystal with pure, clear energy.
• Singing Bowls, Gongs, or Drums: These instruments can project sound vibrations that help cleanse the Amethyst, restoring it to its original state.

2. Smudging

Smudging involves the use of smoke from sacred herbs to purify the Amethyst. Common choices include:

• Sage or Palo Santo: Light your chosen herb and allow the smoke to envelop the stone, removing any unwanted energies.

3. Moonlight Charging

Although it's debated whether Amethyst needs frequent charging, exposure to moonlight enhances its natural properties. To charge:

• Place your Amethyst outdoors or near a window during a full moon. The lunar energy will revitalize the crystal.

4. Cold Charging

Cold temperatures can also rejuvenate your Amethyst. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator Method: Place the Amethyst in a chilled space or the refrigerator overnight. This method is especially useful during colder months when moonlight charging may not be feasible.

By following these steps, you ensure that your Amethyst stones and jewelry are not only cleansed but also charged and ready to support your well-being.

 

How to Determine If an Amethyst Stone Is Authentic

Identifying whether your Amethyst stone is genuine can be done by observing a few key characteristics:

1. Color Zoning: Real Amethyst stones exhibit distinct variations in color. Instead of a uniform hue, you'll notice a mix of shades, typically including purple with hints of white and blue. This is a natural result of the stone's formation process.

2. Internal Impurities: Look beneath the surface for threads and small impurities. Genuine Amethysts often have these inclusions, adding to their uniqueness and natural beauty.

3. Air Bubbles: Examine the stone for any air bubbles. The presence of these bubbles is a red flag, often indicating that the gem is made of glass rather than a natural crystal, suggesting it might be fake.

By following these steps, you can more confidently assess the authenticity of your Amethyst stone.

 

Zodiac Signs Associated with Amethyst

Amethyst holds a special place as the birthstone for two significant zodiac signs: Pisces and Aquarius. Each sign is drawn to the stone's unique properties in ways that perfectly complement their personalities and life paths.

Pisces: February’s Dreamers

Pisces, spanning February 19 to March 20, find their ideal gemstone companion in the mystical Amethyst. Known for their creative spirit, deep empathy, and spiritual inclinations, Pisceans align beautifully with the calming and intuitive energies Amethyst offers. This stone helps them maintain emotional balance, ensuring their sympathies don't lead to burnout. With Amethyst, Pisces can stay spiritually grounded and true to their personal journey, enjoying the dual benefit of protection and inspiration.

Aquarius: The Visionary Water-Bearers

Aquarius, covering January 20 to February 18, also finds a friend in Amethyst. These individuals are known for their intellectual depth, progressive thinking, and strong sense of independence. Often viewed as analytical and assertive, Aquarians benefit from Amethyst's ability to foster calm and enhance communication. The gemstone helps balance their analytical tendencies, bringing tranquility and encouraging a deeper understanding of emotions.

By offering spiritual grounding and enhancing personal freedom, Amethyst unites with these two signs to amplify their natural strengths, making it an invaluable gemstone for both. Whether you are Pisces or Aquarius, Amethyst serves as a powerful tool in navigating life's challenges with clarity and serenity.

 

Can Amethyst Be Exposed to Sunlight?

Amethyst, with its stunning purple hue, does have a few considerations when it comes to sunlight exposure. While a brief encounter with sunlight won't harm the gem, prolonged exposure can lead to its vibrant color gradually fading. This is particularly true for deeper shades of violet.

The reason lies in the composition of amethyst. Made primarily of silicon, oxygen, and iron, amethyst is sensitive to UV radiation. Extended exposure to such light can alter its coloration over time.

Key Points to Consider:

• Short-term sun exposure: Safe and unlikely to cause immediate color change.
• Long-term exposure: May result in fading, especially under direct UV light.
• Deep violet stones: More susceptible to color changes than lighter shades.

To ensure your amethyst remains as breathtaking as ever, it’s best to store it in a shaded location when not in use. If you're wearing amethyst jewelry, try to limit its time in direct sunlight. This way, you'll preserve its beauty for years to come.

 

Can Amethyst Be Submerged in Water?

Yes, amethyst can generally be submerged in water. The crystal scores a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it relatively safe for exposure to water without immediate damage. However, it's wise to limit the duration that amethyst stays immersed, as prolonged soaking might result in unwanted effects.

Tips for Water Use with Amethyst:

• Avoid Salt Water: Refrain from leaving amethyst in salt water for long periods, as the salt can erode the crystal's surface over time.

• Occasional Rinsing: It's usually okay to rinse amethyst under clean tap or distilled water briefly, which can help cleanse and recharge the stone without impacting its integrity.

In essence, while it's safe for occasional exposure to water, mindful handling ensures your amethyst remains vibrant and undamaged.

 

Geological Properties of Amethyst

Amethyst is a captivating mineral whose geological properties have fascinated gem enthusiasts and geologists alike. Below is a detailed exploration of its defining characteristics:

Chemical and Physical Structure

• Chemical Composition: Amethyst primarily consists of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It contains trace elements like iron and aluminum, which contribute to its distinct colors.
• Crystal System: It belongs to the trigonal crystal system, which is a subdivision of the hexagonal system.
• Mohs Hardness: With a hardness rating of 7, amethyst is both durable and suitable for various uses, including jewelry.

Appearance

• Color: Amethyst ranges from a pale violet to a rich, dark purple. This violet hue is due to the natural irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements.
• Transparency and Diaphaneity: The mineral exhibits transparency ranging from fully transparent to translucent.
• Luster: It possesses a glass-like, vitreous luster that makes it highly reflective and shiny when polished.

Optical Properties

• Refractive Index: The refractive index ranges from 1.544 to 1.553.
• Birefringence: It shows a birefringence of approximately 0.009, which measures the difference in its refraction.
• Other Optical Features: Amethyst displays uniaxial optical properties and has a specific dispersion value of 0.013, influencing how it interacts with light.

Formation and Occurrence

• Formation Environment: Amethyst forms in high-temperature hydrothermal veins, often within cavities of igneous rocks like granite and basalt.
• Occurrence: This mineral is found globally and is often associated with geodes or volcanic rocks.

Special Characteristics

• Fluorescence: Some specimens are known for their ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light.
• Thermoluminescence: In some cases, amethyst may exhibit thermoluminescent properties, emitting light when heated.

These geological properties not only make amethyst a sought-after gemstone but also a subject of scientific admiration and study.

 

How Much is Amethyst Typically Worth?

Amethyst is a beautiful and popular gemstone that, historically, was as revered as sapphires and rubies. Today, however, it is much more accessible and affordable due to its abundance.

Pricing Factors

1. Quality and Clarity: The value of an amethyst is greatly influenced by its quality. Higher quality stones with deep, vibrant purple hues and minimal inclusions command higher prices.

2. Cut: The way an amethyst is cut can also affect its price. Expertly cut stones that maximize brilliance will generally cost more.

3. Carat Weight: As with most gemstones, larger stones are rarer and thus more expensive. However, the price per carat doesn’t increase dramatically.

4. Origin: Amethyst from certain locations, like Siberia or Uruguay, might be priced higher due to color saturation and clarity.

Typical Price Range

Amethyst is usually priced between $20 to $40 per carat, depending on these factors. Exceptional pieces, especially those with particularly striking hues or from specific regions, can exceed this range.

In summary, while amethyst used to be a symbol of exclusivity, it’s now an affordable luxury thanks to its abundance. This makes it an excellent choice for both jewelry lovers and collectors alike.

Amethyst is purple variety of quartz with a rich history and is packed with some fairly neat properties, some of which are related to that history. Amethyst's stunning purple comes from gamma irradiation. We love it, wear it, and have even used cups with the stone embedded into it. Maybe the stone doesn't stop drunkenness after all, as a truly amazing piece will make you blackout!

 

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