Amethyst pendant

Amethyst - The Calming Quartz

What is an amethyst?

A member of the quartz family, amethyst is the world's most valuable quartz gemstone. Unique for its crystalline structure, it is best known for its varying shades of violet. This eye-catching quartz can be found in mauve, lavender, lilac, or the deepest of purple, offering a shade to fit anyone's taste. Through heating, the stone can produce gorgeous yellow-hued quartz, called Citrine, as well as Prasiolite, a lovely green variation.

Where does amethyst come from?

Siberia once had magnificent deposits of amethyst in the Ural Mountains. The most desired color, deep purple with rose-red tint and even blue tints, came out of these deposits. Like many ancient gemstone mines, it was depleted long ago. Today, your amethyst pendant probably originated in Brazil or Uruguay, though some do come from Sri Lanka, Mexico and Arizona as well.

Mythology

The name is Greek for "sober." Now, this makes sense once you hear the story of Bacchus. He was the Roman god of wine and revelry. One day, he was in a foul mood and set his tigers on the next person to cross his path. This unlucky person happened to be a maiden named Amethyst who was on her way to the Goddess Diana's temple. Diana turned her into a pillar of quartz to stop the tiger attack. Bacchus was so remorseful; he poured wine over the pillar as an apology and stained the pillar purple.

As a result, the stone was believed to have the power to stave off drunkenness. In fact, the ancient Greeks and Romans would carve drinking goblets from the violet quartz rather than wear them as amethyst and diamond rings, in an attempt to remain sober as they drank their wine.

Birthstone for February

Celebrating a birthday in February? You might want to start hinting for the amethyst and diamond bracelet you've been wanting. As a February baby, you have a right because it is your birthstone. Of course, everyone can ask for and wear it, but you have a special connection.

If your 6th wedding anniversary is coming up, you've got another opportunity to hint for jewelry made from the crystalline gemstone. Amethyst rings come in a variety of cuts and colors to fit any personality.

Healing Properties

You already read how the quartz can ward off drunkenness, but it has other healing properties as well. It is said to have a calming effect on the wearer invoking peaceful and loving feelings. It also bestows courage and protection on whoever wears it. Soldiers going into battle may have worn an amethyst pendant or carried a carving made from the violet quartz to keep them safe.

How to care for your gemstone

Quartz is fairly strong and this gemstone ranks a 7 in hardness. It is more than strong enough for everyday wear, but at a mere 1/15th the hardness of a diamond, taking care with it is recommended. To bring back the lost sheen of a gemstone ring, soak it in soapy warm water and wipe with a soft cloth. ( By Andrew Stratton )