The amethyst stone, whose properties have been known to man since ancient times, continues to captivate people with its beauty, spontaneity, and more. The mineral belongs to a variety of quartz and is not very expensive, but, nevertheless, it is very beautiful. Many legends and traditions are associated with it. That is why lovers of natural stones are always interested in what magical properties this stone has and who this amazing gem is suitable for according to their zodiac sign.
History and origin
Science has established that the properties of amethyst were studied by the Sumerians. In Egypt, the stone was considered blessed; the Romans used it as decoration for small items, gems, and seals. The Chinese still make bowls and vessels from amethyst for storing valuable aromatic oils.
Amethyst
The generally accepted name for the stone was given by the ancient Greeks. It means “not drunk”, “sober”.
The Greeks came up with an instructive myth on this topic. Their god of wine and fun, Dionysus, fell passionately in love with the nymph Ametis. But she preferred the shepherd, which God could not accept. The nymph asked the goddess Artemis for help, who turned the beauty into a transparent stone. To revive it, Dionysus tipped a cup of wine onto the faded statue. This is how people got the most beautiful type of quartz, named in memory of the nymph.
Rings with amethyst are worn at feasts (corporate parties) so as not to get drunk and not say too much.
The mineral is also known as “lilac stone nobility”, “stone violet”, apostolic or bishop’s stone.
This is one of the 12 gems on the robe of the high priest of Ancient Judea. The Pope presents an amethyst ring to incoming cardinals. In Rus', this stone was especially revered by archbishops.
Amethyst adorns the crown of the British Empire and the crowns of Russian autocrats.
Only from the 18th century did the mineral become available to everyone who could afford it.
Amethyst stone in legends
If you translate the word “amethystos” from ancient Greek, you get the adjective “not drunk.” Scientists associate this translation with a beautiful romantic story-myth of Ancient Greece.
There is a legend that the God of wine, Dionysus, fell in love with the beautiful nymph Amethyst. However, the girl's heart was occupied. After numerous attempts by Dionysus to be with his beloved, the goddess of female chastity Artemis intervened in the situation, who turned the nymph into a hard stone of a rich purple hue. As a reminder of the love of Dionysus, Artemis endowed the mineral with the unique property of protecting against intoxication.
According to legends, during a feast, the ancient Greeks often decorated their dishes with amethyst, and also put on various jewelry made from a precious (at that time) gem. In this way, they protected themselves from the strong effects of the intoxicating drink.
There are other names for the gem, for example, “bishop” (Old Russian) and “apostolic” (in the Christian tradition) stone. It is interesting that back in the 16th century. in Rus', amethyst, which has a red tint, was called “dumpling” or “amephis”.
At that time, this mineral was valued higher than ruby. The gem was the favorite stone of the church fathers, which is why the altar, icons of saints, and crosses were often decorated with the help of a purple nugget.
Amethyst is also called the “widow’s stone” (together with pearl and alexandrite). The mineral is a symbol of a woman’s strong love and fidelity. Such jewelry is worn by beautiful ladies who have lost their beloved husband, or who have taken an oath of eternal fidelity to their lover.
Physicochemical characteristics
Description of the classic amethyst: a type of quartz, an oblong translucent crystal of a deep purple hue.
Amethyst Crystals
The stone changes color when fired (320–750 °C). Thanks to this feature, plain quartz turns into yellow citrine. This is how rare citrine geodes are produced. Irradiation produces brown or green crystals.
Under different lighting, amethyst changes hue, and under ultraviolet light it quickly fades to white. It recovers slowly on its own, immediately under X-rays.
The color saturation of amethyst decreases by a percentage every year.
Property | Description |
Formula | SiO2 |
Color | Violet to pale reddish-violet. |
Shine | Glass, mother-of-pearl. |
Transparency | Transparent |
Hardness | 7 |
Cleavage | Absent |
Kink | Conchoidal; quite fragile. |
Density | 2.63-2.65 g/cm³ |
Place of extraction
Significant deposits of stone are concentrated in Russia, Asia, Africa (one of the largest deposits is in Zimbabwe), and South America. The richest vein is being developed in Austria.
The Ural stones are recognized as the most beautiful and expensive. Amethyst from a deep deposit is called “deep Siberian”.
Blue amethyst
However, most Russian deposits are not developed, mothballed or abandoned.
Crystal color range
The main color of a transparent amethyst stone with magical properties for women and the stronger sex is purple. Additional shades:
- blue;
- purple;
- lilac;
- pinkish.
An unusual representative of amethysts is a green mineral, which is also called praseolite. It is mined in Brazil and used for unusual, original jewelry in the most interesting combinations.
The most expensive and rare is black amethyst with a glossy, oily surface. It is mined only in Uruguay. Black growths are located only in the upper layer of the rock. Psychics consider it the most powerful stone, capable of opening the “third eye.”
Varieties and colors
In nature, a purple mineral on a grayish base is common. However, the gem is distinguished by a variety of shades of the main color and others. There is no single point of view on the reasons for this.
Dark purple, delicate rose and rich red are rare.
Colors
The color of amethysts ranges from young lilac to deep violet, with bluishness, purple, lavender, and even almost black.
- Violet. Amethyst classic. The colors of such amethyst range from the most delicate lilac to violet luxury. In the sun or near an open fire, the depth of the shade is lost. The cooled crystal looks like a pale copy of the original material, so there is no point in experimenting.
Purple Amethyst - Green. Nature does not create green gems, these are ennobled stones. They are obtained by calcining light quartz from the Brazilian Montezuma deposit and the American deposit (Arizona). At 500 °C the crystals become onion green. This mineral is called prasiolite, which is translated from Greek as “onion stone.” Material used for single items or private collections. The color of the amethyst is emphasized by a special cut. A dual effect is produced by needle inclusions. They devalue most green amethysts. But lovers do not skimp, considering such an addition as a guarantee of the uniqueness of the stone.
Ring with green amethyst
Prasiolite is synthesized, it is cheap, and has almost ousted its improved “competitor” from the market. When buying green amethysts, they carefully study the certificate - the countries of origin of the crystals can only be Brazil or the USA.
- Pink. Rare specimens framed with elite frames. There are inclusion points that do not reduce the value. In the light they instantly discolor, turning into a white or grayish pebble. An elite gem worthy of a personal luxury box.
Pink Prasiolite - Black. Amethyst King. Expensive, awarded with a high-quality cut. The special significance of an amethyst of this color is recognized in the occult community.
Black amethyst bracelet
Varieties
Interesting types of stone are ametrine and amethyst quartz. The first is a hybrid of amethyst and citrine, combining violet with yellowness. The second is a violet agglomerate with white stripes, which are created by interspersed ribbons of milky quartz.
Used as jewelry or decorative material.
Medicinal properties
Lithotherapists have studied the healing capabilities of the mineral. In addition to the main function of preventing one from getting drunk, the stone is endowed with other healing properties. Crystals, jewelry with them, or water infused with amethyst are used.
How does an amethyst crystal work (alone or in jewelry):
- facial massage with a pebble improves color, removes freckles, fine wrinkles, age spots, papillomas or rashes;
- the stone is warmed in the palms, then placed on the forehead or temples to relieve headaches or insomnia;
- To ensure a sound sleep, place it under the pillow.
Purple amethyst
If there is no time for procedures, water in which the amethyst was left overnight may be suitable. It is drunk in the morning on an empty stomach for the purpose of:
- remove toxins from blood vessels, liver and kidneys;
- neutralize colds;
- improve the functioning of the endocrine system;
- remove swelling;
- normalize blood pressure;
- cure mental disorders;
- improve the health of the gastrointestinal tract and heart.
The healing properties of any amethyst are maximized if the crystal (preferably in silver) comes into contact with the skin. A silver pendant in the solar plexus area heals drug addiction.
A ring, beads or earrings with amethyst, worn constantly, prolong youth.
To nullify stress or the effects of radiation, healers recommend a black pebble.
Magic properties
Amethyst exhibits magical properties in different areas. Some are inherent in a mineral of any color, others are determined by its color.
General qualities
The main purpose of purple quartz is to prevent drunkenness or hangover.
The magic of amethyst in other colors helps to be alert in the morning, replenish energy or concentrate.
Violet is a stone of spirituality, virtues, promotes good people.
Wearing amethyst jewelry drives away torment or heavy thoughts, eliminates aggression, replacing it with prudence and nobility.
Controversies
In controversial situations, the meaning of a stone for a person is ambiguous:
- Amethyst is well suited for protecting the owner from the inadequacy of the environment. But it attracts negativity, so during quarrels, jewelry is removed to be cleaned later under running water.
- Amethyst as a gift makes a person fall in love with the giver. Such gifts are appropriate between husband and wife. An offering of a stone from an outsider to one of the spouses will cause discord or break up the family. But the destroyer will not get happiness.
- Amethyst will help you survive the loss of your “other half,” but a ring with it means that a person is not yet ready for new love.
The last quality is associated with the stereotype of amethyst as a stone of loneliness.
Amethyst bracelet
Color "specialization"
The magical properties of colored amethyst of the desired shade are effective for various purposes:
- black - a talisman against external negativity (anger, rage or malice);
- purple is an amulet against drunkenness. In addition, it is violet that is the mystical stone of the “third eye”, activating the superpowers of the owner; introduces to the Universal Mind and is used in meditation;
- pink - emotional or love sphere, such an amethyst is ideal as a gift to the object of love;
- green - the significance of this stone in establishing business relationships and business development;
In order for magical capabilities to manifest themselves stably and fully, the stone is constantly worn as a talisman and amulet. The untreated specimen is especially strong.
Talismans and amulets
The magical properties of the stone appear more clearly in jewelry:
- a ring with an amethyst on the left ring finger for ladies, on the right for gentlemen;
- a ring with a black stone is the number one talisman for men;
- the gold frame serves as an energy store and regulates the energy balance, the silver frame is responsible for external contacts and brings the desired changes.
Talisman with amethyst
The owner of the amulet jewelry is guaranteed the favor of management, respect from colleagues, well-being in the home, mental protection and luck.
Energy qualities of the stone
What are the magical properties of amethyst and who is it suitable for? According to its meaning, the mineral is associated with purity and pure spiritual thoughts.
Jewelry with crystal:
- help overcome cravings for alcohol;
- are a symbol of reconciliation and successful relationships in a couple;
- instills prudence, this quality is especially valued by clergy;
- conducive to business development.
Violet crystals open a person’s “third eye” and make it possible to comprehend the secrets of the universe. The main magical property of amethyst for women is the ability to give birth to a long-awaited child. Therefore, it is recommended to wear the stone in case of infertility.
The gem brings happiness to honest and selfless people. You cannot quarrel in the presence of a talisman, since the stone is capable of absorbing negativity. If you plan to wear a crystal in a ring, it is best to put the jewelry on the ring finger of the left hand for girls, and on the right hand for men.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
Amethyst suits almost everyone's zodiac sign, but its favorites are Aquarius and Aries.
Zodiac sign | Compatibility (“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – strictly contraindicated) |
Aries | +++ |
Taurus | + |
Twins | + |
Cancer | + |
a lion | — |
Virgo | + |
Scales | + |
Scorpion | + |
Sagittarius | + |
Capricorn | + |
Aquarius | +++ |
Fish | + |
(“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated)
Compatibility with other stones
Amethyst is a stone of Air. Gems of this element are translucent, with impurities or haze. The most famous: sapphire, hyacinth, rock crystal, smoky and rose quartz, peridot, chrysoprase, chrysoberyl, tourmaline, topaz, citrine, carnelian, lapis lazuli. Amethyst harmonizes with them energetically.
Pendant with amethyst
Astrology is against the duet of air minerals with water ones: they create uncomfortable vibrations.
As Pavel Globa found out, amethyst is incompatible with emerald according to the horoscope.
Name compatibility
According to the esoteric statement, the sound of a person’s name creates energy vibrations. When meeting with the flow emanating from the stone, they can conflict or create a harmonious union. The following names are suitable for a noble amethyst:
- male - Ivan, Alexander, Alexey;
- female - Taya, Daria, Elena.
A precious amulet will become a righteous mentor, protect you from bad habits, and fill you with vital energy. Girls will become confident in themselves and will no longer be ashamed of their own appearance. For representatives of the opposite sex, a magical attribute will become the key to good luck in business and deliverance from misfortunes.
Application area
The only area of use of amethyst is in the sphere of beauty.
Jewelry value scale
The evaluation characteristics of the stone differ from most gems, where the weight of the stone is first taken into account. The price of amethyst crystals depends on several characteristics, which are located in the following hierarchy:
- Color. Has the greatest influence on the price of the stone. The most expensive specimens are dark purple with a bluish or pink tint.
- Transparency. Compared to other “brothers”, with amethyst, on the contrary, the more transparent the stone, the cheaper. The most expensive ones are translucent. Crystals of absolute transparency are considered semi-precious.
- Cut. Elite stones have a mixed or stepped cut.
- Weight. Has little effect on the price of the stone.
Only the best varieties are cut, others become cabochons or are used for small decorative items.
Premium quality material - deep dark “Siberians”, then “Uruguay” and “Bahia” stones.
Price
A transparent, medium-density purple specimen sells for $11–27 per carat.
Amethyst
On the Russian jewelry market, a rich violet-colored pebble costs 2.4–2.6 thousand rubles. per gram.
Prices for collectible samples (especially from depleted deposits) start from 1000 rubles. a piece.
Who is suitable for jewelry with amethyst?
This is a stone beyond age, type of appearance or level of event.
The richness of color makes it possible to choose an option for any occasion.
The younger the owner, the lighter the stone. For young girls, amethyst jewelry in delicate tones makes it look modest and luxurious at the same time. For an older woman - an exquisite purple brooch or necklace.
Jewelry in gold is suitable for dark-eyed brunettes, and in silver - for blue-eyed blondes. Dark stones form the men's range.
Stone care
“Stone violet” is a very beautiful mineral, and proper care is needed so that it pleases its owner for as long as possible. A few simple conditions will help keep your amethyst jewelry in good condition.
There are tips on the Internet that suggest that to clean the product, it should be boiled or kept over steam. This should not be done with a purple crystal; it was previously stated that the color of the stone does not tolerate high temperatures and light. By the way, about light, it is better not to wear the mineral in the summer; at this time of year it is worth putting it away in a box.
To clean the product from contaminants without harming the quartz nugget, you need to place it in a soap solution or brush it with toothpaste. A harmless and effective way is to take it to a workshop; now they practice cleaning jewelry using ultrasound.
Amethyst can be cleaned with soapy water
Artificial amethyst
The gem is synthesized in laboratories. Parameters (size, color and degree of transparency) are set in advance.
Gold pendant with amethyst
Artificial cultivation copies the natural process, using quartz as a basis, like natural stones. Therefore, artificial material is not considered a fake. Externally and physically they differ little. The origin is taken into account by people who cannot tolerate synthetics or use gems as a magical and healing attribute.
The affordable price of laboratory material has devalued natural stone - the cost of both is approximately the same.
Favorable time to buy
According to mystics, it is important to receive amethyst as a gift or buy it on a certain lunar day. The stone is a living energy that sensitively reacts to the phases of the moon. If you make a purchase on an unfavorable day, positive energy can turn into negative energy and turn against the owner.
Lilac quartz, like other gems, is prohibited from being brought into the house before the new moon (on the 29th and 30th lunar day). The penultimate day is considered especially dangerous; on this day, amethyst is not recommended, not only to purchase, but also to wear. On the 29th day all evil spirits become active, so the stones must be protected. The last lunar day allows the use of amulets; it is better to keep other magical gems in melt water.
The best time to buy a crystal is 2 and 16 lunar days. These days, the stone quickly gets used to its owner, adapts to his life rhythms, and a healing energy exchange begins. But from March 15 to 20, it is not recommended to go to a jewelry store; these days are called “mournful”.
If you buy an amethyst at this time, the mineral will react sensitively to negative energy and “withdraw into itself,” and a person buying a crystal will bring upon himself great trouble.
How to spot a fake
Amethyst is the most valuable variety of quartz and is counterfeited.
Glass, plastic, artificial crystals or natural cheap stones, such as fluorite, are passed off as minerals.
You can distinguish a natural stone from a fake by yourself:
- A real amethyst with a dull shade, it has uneven coloring and incomplete transparency.
- Air bubbles, water bubbles or microcracks are common in natural stone. Synthetics are homogeneous: it is easier to obtain a perfect crystal that imitates natural flaws. But inside, traces of crystal growth are visible, which the natural mineral lacks.
- The sample is evaluated in the shade and in the light. If the shade remains the same, the gem is real.
- Amethyst scratches glass, but it cannot be damaged with a needle or knife. This is how glass or plastic is identified, but not grown stones.
- The natural mineral in your hands heats up gradually.
- The sample is immersed in water. With natural stone, after a couple of minutes the edges will turn slightly pale. This is inaccessible to artificial ones.
- Under ultraviolet light or in the sun, a natural crystal will fade completely and equally, while synthetics will fade partially.
- X-ray spectrum and structure analysis. It is expensive, carried out in a laboratory, but provides a guarantee.
A stone in a setting is assessed by shining a light on it. If the frame is solid, it is impossible to conduct such an experiment.
How to wear and care
The mineral is strong, but vulnerable.
Bracelet watch with amethyst
It requires special storage conditions and needs to be carefully looked after:
- The stone is damaged by falling or strong impacts.
- Gems are not worn to the beach or a summer walk. Jewelry looks better in the evening.
- Before doing housework, going to the shower or swimming pool, jewelry is removed.
- Clean the stone with soapy water, rub gently with a soft brush, rinse with running water, and dry with a napkin. Acids, alkalis or abrasives are excluded.
- Mental negativity is removed by washing the stone or jewelry with water for ten minutes every month.
Compatibility with other stones
Given the connection of stones with planets, it is important to check their astrological compatibility according to the horoscope. In the old days they believed that if you wisely combine gems in one or different pieces of jewelry, you can not only improve your well-being, but also change your destiny. The energy of amethyst will not conflict with garnet and amber; the violet mineral has good compatibility with malachite, opal, moonstone, and pearls. The opposite of valuable quartz is emerald and aquamarine; their opposition can adversely affect the owner of the gems.