Amethyst is the birthstone for February birthdays and is also the gemstone for the sixth anniversary of marriage. This luscious, purple gemstone has been traveling the world for thousands of years as a means of trade exchange and has been revered by royalty for centuries.
The Amethyst Stone
Amethysts are in the quartz family and come in colors that range from light lavender to deep, dark purple. While all the colors are beautiful it is the deepest purple amethysts that are the most valuable. Amethyst is mined in parts of South America, North America, Africa, Germany, Russia and China. Used for trade for years made amethyst available to many cultures throughout time.
Amethysts in Mythology
The name amethyst comes from the Greek word “amethustos” meaning sober. Greek legend says that the amethyst was created when Dionysus, the god of intoxication, became angry and swore revenge on whoever crossed his path next. The beautiful virgin Amethyst came along to pay tribute to the goddess Diana and came upon the fierce tigers that were set on the path by Dionysus.
When Amethyst cried out to be spared death by the tigers, Diana turned her into a statue of clear quartz. When Dionysus learned of this he cried purple tears into his cup which accidentally spilled over Amethyst turning her into the purple stone we know today.
The Amethyst throughout History
Amethyst stones have been worn by royalty and religious leaders for centuries. Since the Middle Ages, Bishops have worn rings set with amethyst stones to symbolize celibacy and piety. Buddhists use amethysts to enhance peace and tranquility during meditation. Leonardo da Vinci believed that amethyst had the power to protect against evil and to increase intelligence. The Chinese understood the value of amethyst and used it as a means of trade exchange for thousands of years. The amethyst stone has been an important part of many cultures for centuries.
Magical and Healing Powers of the Amethyst
Like all gemstones, amethysts are believed to have healing and magical powers. Wearing the amethyst is said to help the immune system and circulatory system. It is also helpful with insomnia, headaches, arthritis, ear aches and memory loss. The amethyst is believed to have the power to clear the mind and encourage calm and contemplation. Its power helps to progress therapy for drug and alcohol abuse, depression, anxiety and anger.
Whether you wear amethyst for its beauty or for the magical or healing powers it is believed to contain, you are certain to enjoy this lovely stone that is fit for royalty.
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