Amethyst is a Macro-crystalline (large crystal formations) and tends to grow on the inside of agate geodes. These geodes are formed when clay, silt, sand or gravel are deposited and compacted together in running water. Amethyst ranges from deep purple to a pale lavender color depending on the manganese and iron presence. Its purple color begins during crystal growth when trace amounts of iron are integrated into the growing quartz crystal. Gamma rays are emitted by radioactive materials within the host rock and irradiate the iron to produce the purple color after its crystallization. Their size can range from several inches to several feet in height.
Purple dye was the royal choice in the ancient Mediterranean, so Amethyst was quickly associated with wealth and power. The rich and mighty monarchs adorned themselves with it and viewed Amethyst comparable to the Ruby, Emerald or Sapphire. Still to this day it continues to hold a powerful position, worn by officials in the Church of Scotland, the Anglican/Episcopal hierarchies, the Roman Catholic church, the British Royal Sceptre, and the Kent Demi-Parure, among others. Even Queen Elizabeth II and other members of her family have many prominent pieces bearing this regal crystal . Some of the largest Amethyst geodes come from Brazil and Uruguay but it is also mined in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Germany, Australia, Mexico, Africa, Russia and the United States.
According to the ancient Greeks, its origin began with the nymph Amethystos. She had refused the attentions of Dionysus, God of wine and intoxication, and feared he would ruin her. She prayed for protection and the preservation of her chastity. Artemis, Goddess of animals, hunting and virginity, answered her call transforming the nymph into stone. Dionysus was humiliated and angerly poured his wine over the stone, staining it a crystal purple.
It is a natural tranquilizer, it relieves stress and strain, soothes irritability, balances mood swings while dispeling anger, rage, fear and anxiety. Amethyst alleviates sadness and grief, and dissolves negativity. It also activates spiritual awareness, opens intuition and enhances psychic abilities. Amethyst is believed to have a sobering effect helping to clarify mental dexterity and improve one’s acumen. It can also help subdue a variety of other physical appetites and indulgences. Some believe that Amethyst can help avoid temptation as well as allow one to focus especially when using weapons.
Leonardo Da Vinci believed that Amethyst holds the power to dissipate evil thoughts and sharpens one's intelligence. For centuries, many healers have used it to increase their psychic abilities and intuition. Cross-culturally, it’s symbolizes peace and unification invoking serenity and perception. Amethyst can be used as a tool for spiritual balance. Some use it to help treat insomnia, sugar imbalances and headaches.
Be careful with Amethyst in UV light because the irradiation will destroy the color centers and prolonged exposure will slowly fade it. Separate Amethyst from other stone and crystals because it can cause accidental scrapes or abrasion to other softer gems.
Purple dye was the royal choice in the ancient Mediterranean, so Amethyst was quickly associated with wealth and power. The rich and mighty monarchs adorned themselves with it and viewed Amethyst comparable to the Ruby, Emerald or Sapphire. Still to this day it continues to hold a powerful position, worn by officials in the Church of Scotland, the Anglican/Episcopal hierarchies, the Roman Catholic church, the British Royal Sceptre, and the Kent Demi-Parure, among others. Even Queen Elizabeth II and other members of her family have many prominent pieces bearing this regal crystal . Some of the largest Amethyst geodes come from Brazil and Uruguay but it is also mined in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Germany, Australia, Mexico, Africa, Russia and the United States.
According to the ancient Greeks, its origin began with the nymph Amethystos. She had refused the attentions of Dionysus, God of wine and intoxication, and feared he would ruin her. She prayed for protection and the preservation of her chastity. Artemis, Goddess of animals, hunting and virginity, answered her call transforming the nymph into stone. Dionysus was humiliated and angerly poured his wine over the stone, staining it a crystal purple.
It is a natural tranquilizer, it relieves stress and strain, soothes irritability, balances mood swings while dispeling anger, rage, fear and anxiety. Amethyst alleviates sadness and grief, and dissolves negativity. It also activates spiritual awareness, opens intuition and enhances psychic abilities. Amethyst is believed to have a sobering effect helping to clarify mental dexterity and improve one’s acumen. It can also help subdue a variety of other physical appetites and indulgences. Some believe that Amethyst can help avoid temptation as well as allow one to focus especially when using weapons.
Leonardo Da Vinci believed that Amethyst holds the power to dissipate evil thoughts and sharpens one's intelligence. For centuries, many healers have used it to increase their psychic abilities and intuition. Cross-culturally, it’s symbolizes peace and unification invoking serenity and perception. Amethyst can be used as a tool for spiritual balance. Some use it to help treat insomnia, sugar imbalances and headaches.
Be careful with Amethyst in UV light because the irradiation will destroy the color centers and prolonged exposure will slowly fade it. Separate Amethyst from other stone and crystals because it can cause accidental scrapes or abrasion to other softer gems.