Amethyst is a popular gemstone; almost every crystal collector has one. It’s hard to ignore. A good amethyst is deep purple, so deep that you almost don’t want to look away from its beauty. But, there are some who believe amethyst has many uses. Again, it’s a fairly common stone, so it’s bound to pop up here and there when people talk about jewelry, carvings, crystal properties, meditation, or even maybe some more industrial uses.
We will explore some of the history and common themes or uses that we have found with amethyst, a gemstone unlike any other when it comes to that violet, lavender, or deep Russian hue. So, you might be wondering, what is an amethyst stone good for? Let’s find out!
Purpose
At the end of the day, amethyst is a variety of quartz. Quartz has all sorts of practical uses Despite this, we could not find much on amethyst uses outside of jewelry.
This is not at all surprising, as it is a prime stone for beads, carvings, rings, pendants, and so much more. Aside from being common and affordable, amethyst is a fairly hard stone, which has given it preference to many jewelry makers.
There are probably some instances where our little purple friend is used in some industry, but it’s probably limited. We can also look at the history of the stone, as amethyst has been a much-loved stone for centuries.
Mythology
Perhaps one of the most famous stories or myths about amethyst is that it was a gemstone capable of stopping or thwarting drunkenness. In fact, that is how the stone got its name. Regardless, there isn’t much regarding use here. What is less known about amethyst is that it was once a rare stone.
It’s easy to forget that fact today, since it is so common that you will find it in just about every crystal store or gemstone show. If you look a little far back in history, you will find that it was so prized that amethyst was called a cardinal stone.
For the better part of its history, amethyst had quite the influence and price. Various cultures have used made pendants, rings, or carvings of it, and it is probably one of the oldest stones used for jewelry. In retrospect, it would make some findings rather peculiar, as we would find it odd that nobility would walk around with finely decorated amethyst rings.
In modern times, several amethyst deposits were found. Despite this, amethyst still has common use in jewelry. Even today, many people enjoy and cherish amethyst’s deep purple hue. The most prized types of amethyst are in Sri Lanka or Serbia, as they have the richest color. While it is a fairly common stone, a prized amethyst is not very common at all. In short, a high grade amethyst gemstone is quite valuable.
Other Uses
But, what else could there be? Well, meditation. Some communities believe that gemstones or crystals have healing properties, and amethyst is no exception. Those who believe in crystal healing believe that amethyst is a useful stone for balancing chakras, keeping calm, and maintaining inner balance. However, it is important to note that these claims are not verified by science or any expert healthcare institution, and thus they should not be a substitute for direct medical or expert advice from a qualified doctor.
That is perhaps the most typical use for our lovely purple stone outside of jewelry. However, crystal grids are not necessary for anyone who wants to meditate with an amethyst gemstone, but is known to have some health benefits, even according to Harvard Health (https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/what-meditation-can-do-for-your-mind-mood-and-health-).
Mindfulness and concentration meditation are among the most common, and one way you could use amethyst in meditation is to concentrate on the color of the stone and nothing else; you don’t have to do that, and there are so many different ways to meditate that this is really only one of dozens. Some use mantras or do it for religious reasons. In other words, the uses of amethyst don’t need to be tied to industrial purposes.
There are numerous types of crystal grids one might use, and amethyst is a common stone that spiritual individuals use to help meditate.
If you like to meditate or use crystal grids, then that is fine; amethyst is a favorite stone of ours, but meditation with it, again, should not be a substitute for expert medical advice.
In any case, some of the metaphysical aspects of amethyst aren’t atypical given its history. Drunkenness clouds the mind, and some still believe that amethyst can help clear the mind, help keep balance, and help keep focus. Having a centered and balanced mind is something that could appeal to almost everyone, and this is probably another reason why amethyst has endured.
Amethyst is also used for crystal decor. Many people love to place crystal clusters, towers, or just plain tumbled stones by house plants.
Really, one could say that it is a blend of good conditions that has led to the success of one of the most beloved stones of all time.
Production
Since amethyst is a popular gemstone, synthetic production for it isn’t at all surprising. However, the term “synthetically created” is usually considered undesirable by collectors, spiritual or otherwise (though it does have a practical purpose).
Thus, most people who buy amethyst prefer the natural kind. But where is amethyst mined? Historically, India, Austria, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Russia were popular sources. However, since then, American sources have shown a reliable supply, and so has been Zambia. If you see a high-grade amethyst stone, however, there is a great chance it came from Russia.
However, the largest known amethyst geode was found in Uruguay and has been appropriately named the "Empress of Uruguay," standing at almost 11 feet tall, or over 3m. (https://www.daviddouglas.com/blog-post/the-empress-of-uruguay-is-a-majestic-11-foot-tall-25-ton-example-of-februarys-birthstone)
Wrap Up
There is no doubt that amethyst is one of the most popular stones of all time. The color purple itself is a common choice among those who favor a more royal touch. As such, it is fitting that amethyst was a beloved gemstone for the rich in the distant, distant past.
When it comes to practical purposes, amethyst doesn’t have much use outside of jewelry. But that is completely fine, as it makes for a wonderful stone in rings and necklaces.
Many also use amethyst for spiritual purposes, others like to use it in crystal grids. No matter what you prefer, it’s quite obvious that amethyst is a stone that collectors love.
Personally, amethyst is a favorite over here, too. It’s hard to go wrong with a stone that’s common, affordable, and pretty all at the same time. Not every stone needs to be some glittering behemoth. It’s easy to find beauty in everything. Thank you for reading!