This purple stone is difficult to confuse with other gems. It was amethysts that thousands of years ago were worn by rulers and military leaders, and ordinary people did not refuse to wear purple amethyst - quartz, which, if not for its delicate color, would be indistinguishable from rock crystal or citrine. Representatives of the stronger sex wore it on their weapons and armor, while women preferred to hide amethyst under their clothes. What healing and magical properties does this delightful stone have, and how long has it been known to mankind? We'll tell you about all this right now!
Legend of the appearance
Purple amethyst (in the photo below you can see a natural unprocessed stone) has been known to people for quite some time: it is worth noting that in one of the museums in the world there is a brooch made from this type of quartz. According to researchers, this decoration was made back in the third century AD! A huge number of literary works are dedicated to him, and he is also the hero of an ancient Greek legend.
Thus, the purple stone owes its name to the inhabitants of Ancient Greece. Here the gem was called amethystos, which can be translated as “not drunk.” It is known that the inhabitants of Hellas used amethyst to neutralize the effects of alcohol. It was usually placed in a cup of wine or other alcoholic beverages to prevent a person from getting drunk. They also said that it could act as an indicator of poison.
There is a legend associated with Bacchus, the god of viticulture. He, being in a state of extreme intoxication, became angry with mere mortals, because it seemed to him that they were disrespectful to him. God swore that the first person to cross his path would be torn to pieces by wild tigers (or, according to another version, wild wolves). The first one who caught the eye of Bacchus was a beautiful nymph named Amethyst. In an attempt to escape from the angry animals, the nymph turned to Diana, the goddess of the hunt, to help her. Diana heard the prayers and turned the nymph into a transparent statue. Seeing the stone that Amethyst became, Bacchus sobered up and realized what he had done. In an attempt to revive the nymph, Bacchus began to generously pour wine on her, saying that this drink could revive any person. Amethyst did not come to life - the stone into which she turned only turned a delicate lilac color.
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.
Love through the ages
In Ancient Greece, ladles were made from purple amethyst, with the help of which wine was poured into goblets - it was believed that thanks to this, the participants in the feast would not get drunk longer. The clergy also liked the stone. For example, in Catholic countries this gem is usually called the “bishop’s” (sometimes “pastor’s”) stone, but in Rus' it was called the “bishop’s” stone.
You probably know Princess Tarakanova. So she had a luxurious ring with a beautiful dark purple amethyst. She never parted with her favorite jewelry for a minute; she slept, traveled, and went out with it. And then, when the woman parted with the stone, giving it to her favorite, misfortune befell her. Literally the next day she was taken into custody.
Irina Godunova also adored this gem. A purple amethyst adorned her crown. The symbol of power was decorated with several rather large gems. Irina believed that he would help her - give her wisdom and calmness. It is worth mentioning the jewel of the British royal family - a scepter inlaid with a huge amethyst.
Interesting historical facts
The history of this mysterious mineral goes back many centuries. Like many other precious stones, amethyst was known to the peoples of Europe and the East in ancient times. For example, in Ancient Egypt, the stone of Dionysus was considered divine, bringing people luck and peace of mind. The lilac amethyst was the main decoration of the throne of the majestic ruler. The ancient Romans used crystal for decorative purposes, making small interior objects and decorations from it. In Eastern countries, amethyst vessels were widespread in which aromatic oils and balms were stored. Fragrant lavender, delicate violet, fresh jasmine - all this served as material for the production of oils. All items of church utensils in the Middle Ages were decorated with amethyst, as were the clothes of clergy. Some sources refer to the mysterious crystal as the “bishop’s stone.” This is due to the special attitude of Catholics towards this gem: during each dedication rite, the Pope personally presented the cardinal with an amethyst ring.
For a long time, blue amethysts were valued along with sapphires, and rich purple crystals adorned the crown of the beautiful Queen Irina Godunova. The so-called dumplings - unusual gems with a red tint - were valued much higher than precious rubies. Amazing amethysts frame the binding of the Morozov Gospel, presented in the Armory Chamber of the Moscow Kremlin. It is worth noting that this crystal adorns two ancient icons dating back to the 11th and 17th centuries.
Purple amethyst stone: photo and description
This original gem can have either a delicate lilac hue or a rich purple tone. Usually in nature, amethyst appears as hexagonal crystals, the length of which is from five to ten centimeters. By the way, crystals can be either single or large groups. The color is most often heterogeneous - the middle is the brightest, while the edges are pale or completely transparent. This makes amethysts incredibly attractive. On the Mohs hardness scale, purple amethyst has a density of 7.0.
Mineral cost
Amethyst is highly prized
The price of an amethyst stone depends on its characteristics: color, transparency, size, absence of defects and the presence of jewelry processing. In addition, the cost is influenced by the mineral deposit - crystals of volcanic formation are less susceptible to the influence of light, and therefore are valued higher. Transparent, brightly colored and faceted amethyst costs from 10 to 150 dollars per 1 carat. Examples of pale shades are cheaper - starting from $5 per 1 carat.
An unprocessed mineral of transparent quality costs less - from $3 for a stone 1.5-2 cm in size. Opaque minerals are even less expensive - specimens 1-2 cm in size are estimated at about $1. Interestingly, the price of artificial amethyst (synthesized , hydrothermal) is not much different from the price of natural.
Gem Features
The main feature of this stone is that due to exposure to sunlight, it fades or completely loses its color. Amethyst also changes due to heat - it is enough to heat it to 500 degrees for it to turn into citrine. The purple color will never return to him.
It is also interesting that, unlike many other stones, amethysts do not require intensive processing. Most often it is given shapes such as an oval or a circle, sometimes a heart.
How to spot a fake
Fraudsters are not uncommon these days; dishonest sellers try to make money by passing off painted glass or plastic as a valuable stone. Therefore, it is important to know the main differences for anyone who does not want to purchase a fake for the price of jewelry:
- Quartz material is highly durable; even a sharp knife blade cannot leave a mark on natural amethyst. The same cannot be said about fake material. If you run a sharp object across its surface, it will leave a deep scratch.
- Natural stone has an uneven color, painted glass or artificial quartz is bright and rich, without any foreign inclusions.
- If an amethyst is left in the sun, it will turn pale. Fake amethyst lightens, but not completely, but in the form of small spots.
Natural quartz has low thermal conductivity, so it heats up slowly in the hand. If you put an amethyst against your cheek, you can feel the coolness for a long time.
Amethyst deposits
Purple amethyst can be found almost anywhere in the world. However, only a small part of the states is engaged in the extraction of the mineral. The largest deposits can be found in Russia, Armenia, Bolivia, Madagascar, Uruguay, China and Japan. The most beautiful amethysts are those mined in our country - in the Urals. They are quite large and have a delicate lavender hue. Bright purple crystals are found in Armenia, although only a small amount of gems are mined here. Stones from Uruguay are the least in demand among jewelers around the world - they are small and do not have very good qualities.
Characteristics of the mineral
Amethyst stone is a type of quartz. Its chemical formula is SiO2. The purple or blue-lilac color of the rock is due to iron impurities. A transparent mineral is classified as semi-precious, while an opaque one is classified as ornamental. In nature, they form crystals or crystal aggregates - druses.
The mineral has a glassy or pearlescent luster. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is 7, density is 2.65. The pebble can change its color depending on lighting, temperature and weather conditions. The color of a sun-bleached mineral is restored using X-rays.
Place of Birth
Amethyst deposits in Russia are the mountain ranges of the Polar and Middle Urals. It is mined in Yakutia, Armenia, Azeybardzhan. A large deposit is located in Zimbabwe. Mining is carried out in the USA, Brazil, India, Australia and many other countries. The stone is still mined in small quantities on the White Sea coast (Cape Korabl).
Medicinal properties
Lithotherapy, as stone treatment is also called, appeared many centuries ago. Back in Ancient Greece, doctors and healers used purple amethyst for medicinal purposes. It was believed that the mineral was able to overcome fairly common diseases, including insomnia and any other sleep disorders, nervous breakdowns, depression, and overwork. Today, one of the most popular varieties of quartz is believed to help cope with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Lithotherapists are convinced that this mineral contains the powers of the sky, which means it can save a person from mental illnesses and improve the condition of the nervous system. Esotericists say: amethyst can make the co-owner much stronger spiritually; it returns to him the desire to live, communicate with people and make new acquaintances. It is also important that purple amethysts help cope with bad dreams and insomnia. And to do this, you just need to put the mineral under the pillow. The stone will absorb all the negative energy and help you get a good night's sleep.
Of course, there is a lot of evidence that the mineral actually helps people improve their psycho-emotional state and get enough sleep, however, you should not rely only on its abilities, because they have not been confirmed by representatives of traditional medicine.
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.
Magic properties
Purple amethyst, according to magicians, sorcerers and esotericists, can help a person in various aspects of his life. For example, it allows you to cope with addiction to alcoholic beverages and gives a person such qualities as calmness and wisdom. The gem is able to teach its owner to recognize lies, protects against envious people and people who are negative. Amethysts can help their owner achieve success in business matters. Just imagine, gems can attract potential partners,
How to wear a stone
The gem can be jewelry, which has a transparent appearance and does not contain impurities. Minerals are also found in druses - fused crystals. Jewelry made from mineral is very popular.
In jewelry, amethyst is worn in a silver frame. Light metal emphasizes the extraordinary beauty of the gem and increases its magical effect. If amethyst is combined with other gems, it can be set in gold.
Certain gems can be combined together to create jewelry. Sparkling diamonds, transparent rock crystal, and heavenly aquamarine are suitable for amethyst.
- Jewelry cannot be worn for a long time; the stone tends to accumulate negativity. It is necessary to clean the amethyst with clean water and give it a chance to rest.
- Clothing should be in pastel colors. Bright flashy outfits do not go well with purple gem jewelry.
- Rings are most often made. Not everyone knows how to wear them correctly and on which finger. Best worn on the ring finger. Men - on the right hand, women - on the left hand. Occasionally it can be worn on the middle finger to accumulate positive energy. It is not advisable to do this often.
- This is a zodiac mineral. We must remember that according to the horoscope he is suitable for Libra, Aquarius, and Gemini. Other zodiac signs can wear jewelry occasionally.
- It’s good to take a gem jewelry or amulet to a business meeting in order to successfully negotiate and make the right decision.
- Amethyst is called the stone of sobriety. When going to a party, don't forget to take it. It will help you avoid the clouding of your mind from alcohol, determine your norm in order to have a good time.
- The stone has the ability to curb hunger. If you don't want to overeat or are on a diet, wear a gem. It will help avoid overeating.
Now we have learned how to grow artificial amethysts. They are practically no different from the real ones. Not all experts can distinguish a real stone from a fake. Artificial gems are clean and do not fade in the sun. Their cost is equal to real minerals.
Widow's stone or symbol of love?
For many years, amethyst was worn by widows and widowers of different countries. Why? It was believed that this stone helps to express devotion to a deceased loved one. Esotericists confirmed this opinion, saying that a piece of jewelry with a purple amethyst given to a loved one (in the photo below you can see a ring with an amethyst) is a guarantee that he will not be able to change or fall out of love.
However, later the magicians reported that it is possible to get rid of such effects of the stone; to do this, you just need to get rid of the amethyst. So, in fact, this delightful mineral of unusual color can be called a symbol of love, devotion and reciprocity. Speaking about the magical properties of purple amethyst, one cannot fail to mention one unique feature. It is generally accepted that it is amethyst that allows one to free the heart from past love and step towards a new feeling.
comments
Kira Amethyst is not just an extraordinarily beautiful stone, but it truly has miraculous properties.
The stone helps to heal from unhappy love. I tested this property of amethyst myself: I couldn’t forget one person, I suffered for a long time, and under the influence of this mood I bought an amethyst ring at a jewelry store. Then I had not yet heard of the stone as a cure for love. But it became easier for me, I didn’t take it off my finger for almost six months, during which time I found another love. Perhaps it’s just a coincidence, you say, but I was cured of love and met someone else. Irina interesting article. Do you think amethyst loses its magical properties after organo7
Eva I'm Libra bought an amethyst pendant today, is it worth wearing? My husband won't die, we've been living for 45 years, maybe it's not worth wearing?
Amethyst from lies
Among the properties of purple amethyst, it can be noted that it is the patron of fair and honest people who avoid lies. Stone likes people who are modest, responsible, and noble. He gives them confidence and helps them in different areas of life. The energy of the stone is quite powerful, which means that amethyst is able to independently choose the owner whom it will help.
The mineral will protect its owner from liars, ill-wishers and people who feel envy. How does this happen? Esotericism experts claim that amethyst crystals destroy the cunning plans of ill-wishers, while simultaneously exposing them. And rest assured, the mineral will never help a dishonest person who dreams of doing something to harm others.
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.
Compatibility with zodiac signs: who is amethyst suitable for?
Astrologers say: purple amethyst is not suitable for every zodiac sign. It is considered to be best compatible with Gemini, Libra and Aquarius.
The stars can even explain why the purple stone is suitable for these signs. So, Libra is in doubt quite often. Because of this, they lose inner harmony, gaining problems in return. Amethyst helps them regain a state of peace and self-confidence. The mineral gives Libra the missing energy and relieves stress.
The purple amethyst stone (in the photo you can see it as it is found in nature) is also indispensable for Aquarius, who are constantly under the influence of feelings and emotions. Hysterics will be suppressed by the powerful energy of the stone, and it will also give Aquarius responsibility.
Geminis are people who tend to have addictions. It could be alcohol, drugs, gambling... Any harmful attraction can be overcome by amethyst. He will make up for the lack of communication with people and teach him not to give in to temptations. It will also discourage not very decent people.
Scorpios can also wear amethyst, especially those who fear negative influence from envious people. The stone will help Cancer in work and business. With its help, Virgos will overcome any troubles, and it makes Pisces more insightful and endows them with intuition.
STONE CARE
- Like many other minerals, amethysts do not like frequent exposure to direct sunlight, so the stone should be stored in a dark place, preferably wrapped in a soft cloth;
- Also, caring for amethyst involves protecting it from exposure to high temperatures - under their influence, the mineral loses its color and its aesthetic qualities;
- Protect the stone from contact with various types of chemicals, including household detergents;
- If the amethyst becomes cloudy, it needs to be cleaned. Of course, it is better to rely on professionals in this matter. In jewelry workshops, amethyst is cleaned using ultraviolet light. However, there are ways to clean amethyst yourself at home. To do this, you need to make a soap solution and rinse the stone thoroughly in it. You can also use a soft brush (for example, a toothbrush) and gently clean the mineral with it.
Who is not suitable for amethyst?
According to the horoscope, this mineral is strictly contraindicated for Aries, Leo, Capricorn and Sagittarius. However, it is worth saying that from time to time Capricorns can wear jewelry with this stone, although not too often and not for too long. He will have time to impart wisdom and relieve melancholy. But if Capricorn wears an amethyst for too long, he becomes too aggressive and irritable. A very difficult case is when Capricorn does not remove jewelry inlaid with purple crystals for a long time. He may fall into severe depression, which will not be so easy to cope with.
It will be difficult for hardworking Aries to cope with the unusually strong energy of the stone - they will light up with more and more new ideas, but will not bring any of them to life. Hot-tempered Leos will be even more aggressive if they start wearing jewelry with this stone, the situation is no better for Sagittarius - amethyst will only increase their worries.
In the world of precious stones
Today, amethyst is a favorite and favorite of the most famous jewelry houses in the world. The incredible color and wedge cut of amethyst emphasize the delicacy and uniqueness of the crystal. Among the fair half of humanity, gold jewelry with this mineral is most popular: intricate rings, elegant bracelets and earrings. Amethyst in silver looks no less impressive. Small silver pendants with amethyst are especially luxurious and beautiful. The combination of silver and delicate crystal creates true tenderness. It is quite difficult to give a definite answer to the question of who is suitable for amethyst, since over the last decade the stone has been popular with both women and men. Men's cufflinks with inserts made of precious stones have become incredibly desirable and popular. This is why silver cufflinks with crystal blue amethysts can be a wonderful gift.
Today, amethyst is a favorite and favorite of the most famous jewelry houses in the world.
The combination of amethyst with white gold or other equally luxurious precious stones looks quite impressive. Jewelry experts note that the most suitable gemstones are: diamond, rock crystal, aquamarine, ruby, zircon. When wearing jewelry with amethyst, it is advisable to avoid purple clothes, accessories or shoes. The mesmerizing shade of the stone is self-sufficient and does not need to be accompanied by objects of the same color. It should be borne in mind that artificial light sources that change the color of the crystal are not always able to favorably emphasize the beauty of the mineral. Therefore, it is advisable to wear amethyst jewelry exclusively during the day. The stone is of great importance for women who want to get rid of annoying suitors, since the crystal protects against unwanted attention. A small amethyst jewelry is perfect for a woman born in autumn or winter.
Unfortunately, even the brightest and most luxurious crystals fade over time. To preserve the unique amethyst color for a long time, you need to protect the crystal from sunlight. The gem should be washed with a mild soap solution 2 times a month. Never allow amethyst to interact with various aggressive substances.
