Posts Tagged ‘amethyst’
Amethyst Jewellery – The most striking Jewel
If you are shopping for an amethyst ring then you will be wooed and drawn by its subtly seductive color. Amethyst comes in a striking violet color and it is believed that it will protect you from seduction. How ironical!
For a long-long time, amethyst has been one of the most striking stone from the quartz family and it has adorned the thrones and crowns of prince and princesses. The great Moses said that it is the symbol of the Spirit of God. Its name was derived for the Greek word ‘amethystos’ meaning not intoxicated. The amethyst is the birthstone of those who were born in the month of February. Over the centuries, many faiths and beliefs have been formed around this magical stone. Some say that it can protect your crops against locusts and storm while others believe that it will bring good fortune in war, destroy evil spirits and enhance the intellect.
Those are man made beliefs but gemstone therapists have a different view. They believe that this magnificent stone can have a cleansing effect on the wearer. But above all the stone symbolizes a strong bond of friendship. In the early ages, amethyst was mostly worn by bishops and cardinals. The hardness of this stone is 7 on the Moh’s scale, and it permits moderate refraction but its crystal structure is most unconventional. The crystal structure construction of the amethyst is stratified and due to this, you will find certain lamellae and areas having varying color intensity.
Read the rest of this entry »
Amethyst: A Geological Marvel
Geological Information
Amethyst is a high-quality form of quartz crystal, naturally found as clusters in a nodular stone. They are found sometimes in volcanic vugs or small cavities in rocks. The chemical name for Amethyst is Silicon Dioxide. Amethyst obtains its color through a combination of manganese impurities and iron.
The purple color comes from the presence of manganese, while the existence of iron in certain quantities controls the intensity of the color. Artificial heating treatments have been used on Amethyst to produce popular gems known as Citrine and Ametrine (400 and 500 degrees Celsius). Amethyst measures 7 on Mohs’ hardness scale.
One of the largest cut amethysts in the world is 343 carats and is being displayed at the National History Museum in London. Very dark stones are sometimes heated to enhance color.
Metaphysical and Healing Properties
New Age supporters believe that crystal and gem healing is an art. Objects such as gems and crystals have absorbed and inherited the vital healing powers of Mother Earth. They believe that crystals and gems have physical and spiritual powers that can be used as a therapy for pain, stress and depression.
Amethyst has come to be known to possess prolific purifying healing powers. It acts as a healer at all levels of mind, body and soul, and is commonly associated with peace. It has a tremendous ability of reducing negativity and anxiety.
Placing it under the pillow is said to calm the mid, encourage sleep and dispel nightmares. Amethyst is also known to enhance mental strength and stability. It is considered an ideal stone for those who are struggling with addiction or recovering from alcoholism.
Beside its mental therapeutic benefits, amethyst is used as a remedy for many physical afflictions. When used as a medical solution, amethyst is used to treat toothaches, skeletal discomforts, and other bone and joint-related sicknesses. Amethyst also cures stomach problems, blood disease as well as heart and hearing disorders. Amethyst as crystal is used to heal nervous system problems such as neuralgia.
Read the rest of this entry »