Amethyst is a violet or purple variety of quartz often used as an ornament. The name is generally said to be derived from the Greek a, "not," and methuskein, "to intoxicate," expressing the old belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness.

Amethyst in folklore and astrology

It is a symbol of heavenly understanding, and of the pioneer in thought and action on the philosophical, religious, spiritual and material planes. Ranking members of the Catholic Church traditionally wear rings set with a large amethyst as part of their office.

 

 Amethyst

Value

Traditionally included in the cardinal, or most valuable, gemstones (along with diamond, sapphire, ruby and emerald), amethyst has lost much of its substantial value due to the discovery of extensive deposits in locations such as Brazil.

Amethyst - Healing & Psychic Uses

Amethyst has been in use for thousands of years in magic, healing and psychic empowerment. Its violet color makes this one of the most sought after variety of quartz. It has a large number of qualities and uses that have been given it over the years and it is said to be a stone that radiates energy which has often been referred to as the purple ray.
     It is referred to as a Spiritual Stone because its color violet is same as that of  the crown chakra. Meditation with it helps one in reaching the spiritual aspect of the universe.

 Some other qualities given it are:

  1. Calms emotions and reduces stress
  2. Helps the holder of the stone to have a more optimistic and uplifting perspective.
  3. A powerful amulet for travelers.
  4. It is used as a transmitter of the healing power of the universe.
  5. It is used to increase psychic awareness.
  6. It is kept with other divination tools to enhance their qualities.
  7. Placing it under the pillow helps insomniacs and induces prophetic dreams. 
  8. Used to induce harmony.
  9. Provides Spiritual Upliftment.

 AmethystAmethyst: a Royal Purple

Purple has long been considered a royal color so it is not surprising that amethyst has been so much in demand during history. Fine amethysts are featured in the British Crown Jewels and were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and Egyptian royalty. Amethyst, transparent purple quartz, is the most important quartz variety used in jewelry.

Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that amethyst was able to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence.

Because amethyst was thought to encourage celibacy and symbolize piety, amethyst was very important in the ornamentation of Catholic and other churches in the Middle Ages. It was, in particular, considered to be the stone of bishops and they still often wear amethyst rings.

In Tibet, amethyst is considered to be sacred to Buddha and rosaries are often fashioned from it.

Last Updated ( Sunday, 19 April 2009 19:03 )