The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Amethyst
The Power of Stones: Crystals and Gemstones

ORIGINS

Amethyst is a variety of crystalline quartz that ranges in color from violet to mauve. The color of the amethyst changes in response to heat; depending on the temperature, it can become a range of colors, from reddish brown to yellow and even colorless. The majority of the world’s commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst (see Citrine in this chapter). The most significant deposits of amethyst are found in southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar, and it is also found in parts of Germany and Russia.

HISTORY/LORE

According to legend, the Greek god of wine, Dionysus, once pursued a nymph named Amethyst, who wished to escape his advances. The nymph asked for the help of the goddess Diana, who transformed her into a clear crystal. When Dionysus saw what she had done, he threw wine angrily upon the crystal, giving it its purple color. The ancient Egyptians believed amethyst could assuage fear and guilt, and the Greeks and Romans used it for protection against overindulgence in food and alcohol.

USES

Healing Uses: Amethyst strengthens the immune system and supports oxygenation in the blood. For headaches, rub an amethyst crystal on your forehead. Placing amethyst under your pillow combats insomnia and brings pleasant dreams, and it may also help you remember your dreams upon waking. Amethyst is often incorporated in treatments for alcohol and drug addictions.

Magical Uses: This purple crystal has calming effects, defending against stress and negative energy. Amethyst is connected to the third-eye chakra (located between the eyes), which is responsible for intuition, and the crown chakra (at the top of the head), which controls mental energy. Wear amethyst jewelry to heighten awareness and relieve mental tension. As a talisman, amethyst brings feelings of pure happiness and love.

Feng Shui Uses: Amethyst is often used in purification rituals and can be helpful in calming household turbulence. It can also bring change when needed. Place it in the northeastern area of your home to foster wisdom.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February. It facilitates spiritual awareness and forges a connection to the inner self. It also protects against psychic danger, especially during spiritual exploration. It is great for use in meditation practices because it helps ease the transition to a meditative state and encourages focus.