What on Earth is Amethyst?

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, a durable stone that has been prized for jewellery and carving for thousands of years. Its violet colour comes from iron and natural irradiation, and its long reputation in crystal lore is for calm and protection. This guide covers its properties, history and lore; for stock, see our wholesale amethyst and amethyst points.

Amethyst is a classic for jewellery, display and gifts, and it is one of the best-known stones in crystal lore. It is easy to style in almost any collection.

If you're looking for a crystal that is visually striking and easy to sell, amethyst is your go-to. It is a little purple powerhouse in any range.

The Physical Properties of Amethyst

Amethyst is a type of Crystalline Quartz. The deeper coloured gems are more valuable and believe it or not, amethyst used to be even more precious than diamonds! Amethyst is violet due to iron impurities, the presence of trace elements, and irradiation.

Amethyst is tough as nails! It doesn't break easily and scores a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. That means it can handle some serious wear and tear. That's why it's popular in the world of jewellery. You can find it in all sorts of accessories like bracelets, pendants, earrings, and rings. Amethyst could be your stylish sidekick!

Here's a wild fact: amethyst can change its colours if you heat it up! If you take it beyond 300-400°C, it can lose the violet colour and go colourless, brown, orange, or even yellow. Sneaky, right? That's why some gem dealers sell Ametrine or Citrine. They're amethyst that's been heated up on purpose to create different shades. However, they can be found naturally in places of the world where amethyst grows naturally around heat sources. Think places with volcanoes or hot springs.

The Metaphysical Properties of Amethyst

Amethyst is often called a spirit guide in crystal form. In crystal lore it is linked with instinct and the spiritual side of life, and with letting go of fear and anger. Many people like to keep one nearby as a calming reminder.

Some traditions link amethyst with creativity and intuition, and some people like to wear it on the left wrist. This is a matter of personal belief.

In chakra traditions, amethyst is linked with the Crown and Third Eye Chakras, and many people like to hold one while they meditate.

Amethyst also has a long reputation in lore as a protector for travellers, said to shield its owner from black magic, danger and thieves.

Care tip: keep amethyst out of strong sunlight, which can fade its purple colour. Many people leave their stones in the moonlight instead.

A popular amethyst tradition is to put a stone under the pillow or on a bedside table as a bedtime ritual. It is a matter of personal belief, and a nice excuse to keep a favourite stone close by.

The History of Amethyst

Amethyst has a fascinating history that spans across different cultures and time periods.

In Ancient Greece, people believed that amethyst had the power to prevent intoxication. They even carved drinking vessels from this crystal. The name amethyst itself comes from the Koine Greek words amethystos, meaning not, and methysko, meaning intoxicate. So, it was considered a stone that could keep you clear-headed and sober.

Moving on to European soldiers, they saw amethyst as a protective charm in battle. They believed wearing amethyst amulets would help them stay calm and composed during intense battles. It was also valued as a charm for courage.

In Tibetan culture, amethyst is considered sacred to the Buddha. Tibetans use amethyst to craft prayer beads, which are essential tools for meditation and spiritual practice. This highlights the deep reverence and significance of amethyst in their spiritual traditions.

During the 1800s, people believed that the colour of amethyst was a result of the presence of manganese. However, our understanding of amethyst and other crystals and minerals has evolved over time. Nowadays, we know that the purple hue of amethyst is actually due to traces of iron combined with the quartz crystal. Additionally, the crystal may undergo irradiation processes to further enhance its colour.

The Lore of Amethyst

Amethyst was highly regarded for its protective qualities throughout history. People believed that having amethyst by their side could safeguard them from theft and harm, and create a sense of safety and fairness in their lives. It was seen as a shield against negative energies, transforming them into positive vibes and love.

In ancient folklore, there was a belief that wearing an amethyst crystal could have a remarkable effect on a person's charm and personality. It was thought that amethyst had the power to enhance one's charisma, making them more appealing to others. So, sporting an amethyst was seen as a way to boost your natural charm and charisma.

When it came to relationships, amethyst held special significance. Couples would exchange heart-shaped amethyst crystals as a symbol of their enduring love and profound connection. The heart shape of the amethyst represented the love they shared, and it was believed to strengthen their bond and bring them closer together.