Amethyst has been highly valued since ancient times and was a favorite gem of kings, often being part of royal regalia. In modern times, it is still valued as a treasured gemstone, used in jewelry and decorative objects, such as rings, wine goblets, and other ornamental pieces. Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February. Amethyst also has cultural and spiritual significance and is used in very similar ways across a variety of cultures throughout history.
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a type of semi-precious gemstone in the quartz family with hues ranging from deep purple to pale lavender. Amethyst is one of the most abundant gemstones found in nature and can be found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, India, Canada, Mexico, Madagascar, and parts of Europe.
Amethyst is made up of silicon dioxide ( SiO₂) and gets its violet color from the presence of iron and gamma rays (irradiation). On Earth, gamma ray waves are generated naturally by lightning and the activity of radioactive decay. It has a hardness on the Mohs scale of 7 and occurs in various shades, from light to dark purple.
The name amethyst comes from the Ancient Greek word ‘amethystos’ meaning “not intoxicated” due to its perceived ability to protect against drunkenness.
Amethyst is historically known as a gem that could be used to ward off drunkenness, negative energy, and bad tempers. Ancient Greeks carved amethyst into wine goblets so they could drink as much as possible without getting too drunk. The Greeks also believed that amethyst had powerful healing powers and would often wear amulets made of gemstone to protect them from harm. The Catholic Church used it in many religious items, such as rosaries and bishops’ rings. In England, amethyst was thought to bring courage and strength and was often worn by warriors going into battle.
It is also believed that wearing amethyst can help attract wealth, success, and even love. Some people use it in meditation to promote clarity of mind and focus and may help detoxify the body from negative energy to bring emotional stability and inner peace due to its calming energetic state/vibes.
Natural amethyst gemstone bracelet with 8mm beads on stretchy cord.
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Sources
Hunter, D. (2019, February 28). The Origin of Amethysts May Leave You Tingly. Scientific American Blog Network. https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/rosetta-stones/the-origin-of-amethysts-may-leave-you-tingly/
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Science Mission Directorate. (2010). Gamma Rays. Retrieved [insert date – e.g. August 10, 2016], from NASA Science website: http://science.nasa.gov/ems/12_gammarays
Amethyst is the February Birthstone
The birthstone for February is Amethyst which also means serenity and inner peace. The Greek name is in reference to the ancient belief that the stone could protect against drunkenness and overindulgence.
Amethyst is associated with the crown chakra, which is considered the gateway to higher states of consciousness. It’s believed to enhance spiritual awareness, intuition, and psychic abilities.
Amethyst used as a symbol of calmness, humility, and sincerity, and is often worn or used in meditation.
Amethyst represents sobriety, serenity, and wisdom. It’s name is from the Greek word “amethystos,” which means “not intoxicated.”
Amethyst was assigned the February birthstone by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912 in the United States.
The largest amethyst mine in North America is in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
