Amethyst

Amethyst

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and was already known in ancient Greece. Because of the idea that Amethyst protected the wearer against drunkenness, this stone was often worn and drinking cups were decorated with it. From this conviction, the name also originated in ancient Greek; ἀ a- ("not") and μέθυστος methustos ("intoxicated").

Amethyst is one of the most prized varieties of quartz. The purple color is caused by iron and other trace elements in the quartz crystal. The most common color is deep purple, but can also vary from pale lilac to deep reddish purple. The color intensity and the quality of the amethyst are the most important factors in determining its value.

The formation of Amethyst happens in volcanic rocks, especially in Geodes. In these geodes, mineral-rich liquids deposit layers of crystals, usually first a layer of agate and then a layer of amethyst crystals. Some of these Geodes can weigh several tons and be large enough for a person to stand in. In addition to Geodes, Amethyst also forms in clusters and individual crystals.

Amethyst is found in many different locations around the world. The best quality amethyst is found in Russia, especially in the Ural Mountains, but Amethyst is also found in Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Mexico, Russia and Africa. Amethyst from the Ural Mountains is known for its deep purple color and its large crystals, while Amethyst from Brazil tends to be more vibrant in color with smaller crystals often small.

Amethyst is a relatively hard mineral, with a Mohs hardness of 7, making it suitable for use in jewelry. Certainly also because of the fact that Amethyst can be processed in many different cuts and can also be used as a cabochon in a piece of jewelry very nicely. But in addition to being used in jewelry, a cut Amethyst can also be used as a decorative stone, for example for carvings, sculptures and other decorative objects.

There are several famous amethysts, which are not only very special, but also played an important role in our history and culture.
Consider, for example, the "Amethyst of the Senate," a large amethyst crystal found in the Vatican's Redemptoris Mater chapel. This Amethyst crystal was probably given to Pope Pius IX in 1855 and is said to weigh about 400 pounds.
Another famous amethyst is the "Ruskin Amethyst". This large amethyst crystal was donated to the Victoria and Albert Museum in London in 1872 by the artist and art critic John Ruskin and is notable for its deep purple color and large size.
Catherine the Great, the Empress of Russia owned the "Tsarina Catherine the Great Amethyst". This Amethyst is said to weigh about 500 carats and is set in a chain of gold and diamonds. This necklace is now on display at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Mary, Queen of Scots, is said to have owned the "Stuart Amethyst". This Amethyst is now part of the Crown Jewels of England. The amethyst is set in a gold brooch and can be seen in the Tower of London.
Another famous amethyst is the "Empress Eugenie Amethyst". This is a large Amethyst that belonged to Empress Eugenie of France, the wife of Napoleon III. The amethyst is set in a gold and diamond brooch and can now be admired in the Louvre in Paris.

Amethyst is believed to have healing properties. It is said to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body, which is why Amethyst is often used in crystal healing to relieve stress, anxiety and emotional turmoil and promote inner peace. Furthermore, it is believed that Amethyst can improve communication, both verbal and non-verbal, and that it helps to balance and protect the body, mind and spirit.

Amethyst is also said to be a powerful stone for spiritual growth and development. Due to its high spiritual vibration, Amethyst can help open and balance the crown chakra, the energy center associated with spiritual awareness and enlightenment. It can help one connect to higher states of consciousness and access deeper levels of spiritual understanding. This would make Amethyst the ideal stone for meditation.

In astrology, Amethyst is associated with the zodiac signs Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Sagittarius.
The purple color of Amethyst is associated with the crown chakra and with the third eye.
Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February.

It is important to note that the potentially healing properties of Amethyst and other gemstones should never be used as a substitute for professional medical treatment.