Amethyst stone is one of the many varieties of quartz. It has a characteristic violet hue inherent only to it. In nature, the color of amethyst can vary widely ranging from dark purple to light pink. But still, purple is its hallmark. No wonder the poets compared the gentle shade of this stone with flowers, especially with blooming violets. Initially, amethysts are formed in the form of crystals, which are later given the necessary look and cut. As a frame, silver is most often used.
The most high-quality, beautiful crystals with a pronounced color have always been considered amethysts from Sri Lanka, Brazil and Uruguay. At present, promising deposits have also been discovered in Madagascar and in some states of America. Amethysts obtained in different areas can surprisingly differ from each other. Stones brought from hot Brazil have a bright purple, sometimes almost bloody hue, while Ceylon gems are painted in a pale purple color. But amethysts mined in the Kola Peninsula have an unusual blue-lilac hue for this stone .
Amethyst: properties and name
Beautiful purple stone has been known to people for more than a century. Its name is rooted in ancient times and is directly related to Greek myths. They tell about the beautiful Nymph who sought to escape at all costs from the encroachments of the god of winemaking - Dionysus. To help her, the goddess Artemis turned the girl into a gem, and to this day considered in Greece as an amulet against intoxication. Dionysus hoped to revive the girl with wine, but in vain. This explains the unusual color of the stone.
The name of the crystal is consonant with the phrase "not drunk." In ancient Greece, this stone was also considered a symbol of strong will and devotion. Often, wine was drunk from bowls decorated with amethyst, so that the drink would not prevail over their minds. Over time, the original meaning has become even broader. In Greek society, a strong belief has emerged that amethyst will protect in other cases, when you need to keep emotions in check and your tongue in your mouth. The Romans considered the stone an excellent talisman for reconciliation.
Amethyst: magical properties
The power of talismans and amulets made of purple crystals has been known since ancient times. Our ancestors found it in many areas of life. In particular, they believed that with the help of this stone, weather can be easily predicted. The amethyst darkened before the rain and brightened, foreshadowing clear weather. Such a phenomenon can also be explained from a scientific point of view: a crystal is really capable of turning pale from exposure to sunlight, and when it is heated very strongly, it becomes colorless. It is especially interesting that after cooling the stone returns to its previous saturated color.
Amethyst, the properties of this amazing stone and its creative effect on humans were highly valued in ancient Egypt. There, it was often used as an amulet that brings happiness, longevity and health. Europeans called the crystal a symbol of sincerity and pure intentions. In India, purple amethyst was well known and especially appreciated. The properties of the stone that made it popular in this country are related to the ability to inspire peace in the hearts of people.
In addition, the Indians used amethyst crystals to perform magical rites and sacred rituals. Those who wish to achieve enlightenment calmed thoughts and consciousness by placing such a stone between the eyebrows. Long meditations using an amethyst were thought to help open the "third eye", a special vision that allows you to touch the secrets of the universe. It was noticed that its healing color relieves anxiety, soothes nerves and relieves mental pain.
In Russia, this semiprecious stone was also endowed with a magical meaning. Our ancestors used amethyst to get rid of bad thoughts, as well as in the treatment of infertility. Crystal amulets were advised to be worn by hunters and warriors. The Slavs believed that such a talisman would bring good luck.
The ancient Sumerians, in turn, noted other interesting properties of amethyst. It was noticed that this stone, presented as a gift, establishes a warm affection for the person who presented it. Often, she could develop into love or absolute devotion.
In the Middle Ages, people often romanticized amethysts. The properties of this stone are closely intertwined with the concepts of purity and purity. For this reason, he was considered the best gift for a lover or lover, as he showed love and pure intentions. Around the same time, the violet crystal acquired its other name - the widowers' stone. This is due to the fact that some widows and widowers wore jewelry with amethyst in a sign of unquenchable love and loyalty to the deceased spouse.