Amethyst is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz with number 7 on the Mohs scale. This mesmerizing mineral occurs in many different shades of purple from very light purplish to dark, nearly opaque purple. The colour of Amethyst occurs because of irradiation, impurities of iron and other metals and the presence of traces of other elements. If heated, Amethyst changes colour into yellowish-brown, which creates stone called Citrine.
Amethysts are mined all over the world. The biggest deposits are found in Africa, India, Brazil and Uruguay.
Legend of Amethyst
The name “Amethyst” comes from a Greek word “amethystos” meaning “not intoxicated” or “not drunk”, referring to an ancient legend. There are a lot of variations of this Greek legend, but this one is the most popular. Bacchus, the god of wine, was pursuing a girl named Amethyst, but she didn’t show any respect or affection. Amethyst prayed to gods to lead her out of that situation, and the goddess Diana decided to help her by transforming her into a white stone. Bacchus then poured wine over the stone, which created Amethyst’s world-known colour.
Meaning and properties of Amethyst
Since ancient times, Amethyst has been connected to February, so it is no surprise that it is the birthstone of this month.
Amethyst crystal is one of the most powerful and protective stones ever. It should protect you from any negative emotions, psychic attacks or any other type of harm. It helps to reduce stress, anger, fear and anxiety. It is also said that Amethyst opens your inner self and helps with intuition and understanding who you truly are. Amethyst can also be great for focusing your mind and improving memory.
Amethyst geodes also promote patience and inner strength. Amethyst is amazing for fighting any addiction and promoting a healthy relationship with yourself and other people.
Amethyst Jewellery
Amethyst has many amazing properties. Some of the main properties are its durability, clarity and lack of inclusions or cracks, which makes it perfect for cutting large pieces of jewellery. So if you are looking for any jewellery with big pieces of stones and don’t want to spend that much money, Amethysts are what you’re looking for.
Amethyst Necklace
Amethyst necklaces are perfect for any occasion. Big pieces of Amethyst in combination with diamonds or small minimalistic stone will surely spark up your outfit. Necklaces with Amethysts are usually set with white gold but can look incredible with rose gold too.
Amethyst Rings
Medium-sized Amethyst in the centre of the ring with small diamonds or other gems is very popular nowadays. Amethyst rings are usually made with white gold bands, but any gold will surely look great. Because of the pure and gentle look of this purple gemstone, Amethyst rings are very often used as engagement rings. Favourite cuts of Amethyst in rings are round, oval and square.
Amethyst Earrings
Even though Amethyst looks amazing with any gold, Amethyst earrings are stunning in combination with white gold, which makes the purple colour stand up even more. Favourite cuts are round, oval, heart, teardrop and square.
Amethyst Bracelets
Bracelets with Amethyst are usually made out of small beads of Amethyst combined with silver or white gold bands, which can also be decorated with other stones of designs. If you’re looking for something more minimalistic, one small-sized Amethyst in the centre of the bracelet is also a popular option.