Amethyst

Everything to know about this calming stone

History of the Stone

Origin of the name : Comes from the Greek “ amethystos ”, from the verb methylo which means “to be drunk”. The privative particle “a-” therefore leads to translating the term as “ who is not drunk ”  

Ancient Greeks and Romans believed amethysts could counter Bacchus' intoxication, keeping the wearer clear-headed. In the Middle Ages, English royalty used amethysts to symbolize nobility.

Amethyst jewelry dates back to 2000 BC.

Amethyst is the birthstone for February.

Associated with calmness, stability & mental clarity.

Scientific Makeup 

Home group : Quartz 

Chemical composition : Amethyst is a macro crystalline variety of Quartz with the chemical formula SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) 

Color(s) : Purple (ranging from light purple to dark purple) 

Amethyst is a macro crystalline variety of Quartz with the chemical formula SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) 

Amethyst's purple color is due to the presence of trace amounts of iron in the quartz crystal structure. The more iron that is present, the deeper the purple color of the amethyst. 

How to Spot High Quality Amethyst

Authentic amethysts may have tiny inclusions, such as feathering, veins, or small crystal formations.

  • These inclusions are a result of the natural geological process and indicate the stone is genuine.

  • -Amethyst is graded based on color and clarity.

  • The deeper the shade, the higher the quality and price of the amethyst.

Healing & Energetic Properties

Amethyst is known for calming the nervous system, promoting overall health and strengthening love & harmony in relationships.

  • Physically, it supports the immune system, relieves tension and headaches, and promotes restful sleep.

  • Mentally, it alleviates worries, fosters clear thinking, and enhances intuition.

  • It enhances clarity and peacefulness, aiding both mental and metaphysical flow.

  • Rubbing a moistened amethyst on pimples is said to help cure them.

Story Time

“Long ago, a beautiful maiden was on her way to worship at the Temple of Diana. However, she had the misfortune of crossing paths with the god of wine, Bacchus. Angered since he'd just suffered some slight, he'd vowed to take revenge on the next person he met. He spied the maid and unleashed his two guardian tigers upon her. As the great beasts bounded towards the hapless lass, the goddess Diana intervened. To spare her such a terrible fate, she turned her into a pure, clear stone. 

Immediately, remorse seized Bacchus. To atone for his actions, he poured his wine over the stone, staining the crystal a deep, violet hue. And so, the maiden Amethyst lent her name to the crystal.” 

How to Take Care of your Amethyst Jewelry 

  • Store your amethyst crystals in a cool, dark place. 

  • Avoid exposing your amethyst crystals to direct sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light. 

  • Avoid heating your amethyst crystals. 

  • Be careful when cleaning your amethyst crystals, as some cleaning products can damage the color. 

  • Amethyst is generally safe to put in water, but it should not be submerged for long periods.