The name “amethyst” originates from the ancient Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.” The Greeks believed the stone could prevent drunkenness and ward off overindulgence. In different cultures, amethyst has also been called “bishop’s stone” due to its use in religious regalia and “violet quartz” because of its distinct purple hue. See below for more information on Amethyst history and properties
Composition, Physical Characteristics, and Varieties
Amethyst is a variety of quartz (SiO₂) distinguished by its striking purple colour, which results from iron and aluminium impurities combined with natural radiation. Its colour ranges from pale lavender to deep violet, sometimes exhibiting a colour shift in different lighting conditions. Heat treatment can alter its shade, turning it yellow or green, often sold as Citrine or prasiolite, respectively. Varieties of amethyst include chevron amethyst, which features white quartz banding, and ametrine, a natural blend of amethyst and Citrine.
Geographical Locations
Amethyst is found worldwide, with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Zambia, and Russia. Brazil’s amethyst mines produce large geodes filled with crystals, while Uruguay yields deep, richly coloured specimens. Zambia’s amethyst is known for its deep purple hues, and Siberian amethyst from Russia is prized for its red and blue flashes.
Archaeological and Significant Finds, Historical and Current Usage
Ancient Egypt, Amethyst was known as “Hemag.” It was carved into hearts and worn as amulets by travellers to keep them safe from being taken advantage of or attack and during burial ceremonies with pieces dating as far back as 3000 BCE. An Amethyst Scarab beetle shaped was found in Tutankhamun’s tomb.
The Greeks and Romans crafted goblets to prevent intoxication. In medieval Europe, amethyst symbolised piety and was often set into religious artefacts, including the rings of Catholic bishops. Today, it is used in jewellery, decorative carvings, and meditation tools.
Beads of amethyst were found in Anglo-Saxon graves in England. Medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets as protection in battle in the belief that amethysts heal people and keep them cool-headed.
In 1660, upon the restoration of the monarchy by Charles II of England, Amethyst was used as the centrepiece for the recreated crown jewels.
Interesting Facts
- Amethyst was once as valuable as rubies and sapphires until large deposits were discovered in South America.
- Anglican bishops wear an episcopal ring often set with an amethyst. In the Catholic religion, Amethyst was used in prayer beads and rosaries. It was known as the Bishop’s Stone because it symbolized ecclesiastical dignity. Today, Bishops still wear it on the second finger of their right hand as it gives clergymen the power of restraint so that they could uphold their vows.
- Some amethyst exhibits a cat’s eye effect or asterism, though rare.
- The British Crown Jewels include amethyst among their treasures.
- The Hebrews called Amethyst “Ahlamah,” which was derived from the Hebrew word, “halam,” which means “to dream.” Still known as the “Dream Stone” it is believed that it can help deter nightmares while giving more positive, vivid dreams.
- The colour purple has historically been associated with royalty due to the costly process and expensive nature of making purple dye. As a stone of royalty, it was used in crowns, sceptres, and jewellery by the royal house because it helped leaders with decision-making. One of the oldest surviving crowns with amethyst jewels is the “Iron Crown of Lombardy” from Italy and dates to the early Middle Ages. It is alleged that the crown contains a band of iron from the crucifixion nails of Christ. The golden crown is decorated with 22 gemstones, 7 red garnets, 7 blue sapphires, 4 violet amethysts and 4 gems made of glass.
Folklore, Legends, and Tales
Greek mythology attributes amethyst’s origins to Dionysus, the god of wine, who, in a fit of rage, ordered tigers to attack a maiden named Amethystos. The goddess Artemis saved her by turning her into a pure quartz statue. Regretful, Dionysus spilled wine over the statue, giving it its purple hue. In other legends, amethyst is believed to bestow wisdom and foresight upon its wearer.
For the Chinese practitioners of Feng Shui, Amethyst can be used to transform lower vibrations into positive ones.
Buddhists believe amethysts to be a sacred stone to Buddha and use prayer beads of amethysts. In ancient times, Amethyst was known as a “Gem of Fire,” because it was thought to hold the energy of fire, which is passionate, creative, and spiritual in nature. In the Eastern world, Amethyst was used in the tree of life, in the gem cities, and in temples of worship. It was also used in offerings and for spiritual practices and meditation.
The blasted Amethyst
The Cursed Amethyst also known as the “Blasted Amethyst” is legend of a jewel looted from the Temple of Indra in Kanpur during the Rebellion of 1857. Brought to England by cavalryman Colonel W. Ferris. Soon after returning to England Ferris lost his life’s savings and passed away. His son inherited the jewel and began having misfortune. The Colonel’s son gave the jewel to a friend who had admired the gem. Shortly after receiving the jewel this friend committed suicide, willing it back to the previous owner.
In 1890 the Blasted Amethyst fell into the possession of Edward Heron-Allen, a 19th-century author and musician. Yet he soon found himself rattled by a series of disasters. Smitten by the voice of a Lady friend, unaware of its past Edward gave her the jewel. The Lady soon fell ill and lost her voice never to sing again. After learning the gems history, Edward reclaimed the Jewel, vowing to get rid of the Blasted Amethyst for good and tossed the jewel into the Regent’s Canal. However, three months later the stone was returned to him after dredgers found the stone in the canal.
Edward finally decided to lock the jewel away in a bank vault. Encased within seven locked boxes. Instructing the bank to donate the Jewel to the Natural History Museum of London three years after his death and to never let his daughter touch the Blasted Amethyst.
Mystical Healing Properties
Amethyst is considered a powerful stone for calming the mind, relieving stress, and aiding in spiritual awareness. It is associated with sobriety, clarity of thought, and protection from negative energies. It is also believed to aid in insomnia, headaches, and emotional balance.
Astrology and Zodiac Links
Amethyst is linked to the zodiac signs of Pisces, Aquarius, and Sagittarius. It is believed to enhance intuition for Pisces, bring clarity for Aquarius, and promote balance for Sagittarius. In astrology, amethyst is associated with the planet Jupiter and the element of water.
Chakra System
Amethyst is primarily linked to the crown chakra (Sahasrara), which governs spiritual connection and enlightenment. It is also connected to the third eye chakra (Ajna), enhancing intuition and inner wisdom. Meditating with amethyst is thought to open these chakras, promoting higher consciousness and psychic awareness.
Use as a Birthstone and for a Wedding Anniversary
Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February, symbolising peace, stability, and courage. It is also the gemstone associated with the 6th wedding anniversary, representing harmony and strengthening the bond between partners.
Amethyst remains one of the most beloved gemstones, cherished for its beauty, history, and spiritual significance. Whether worn as jewellery, used in meditation, or displayed in a home, it continues to captivate and inspire across cultures and generations.
