By
Andrew Stratton
What
is an amethyst?
A member of the quartz family, amethyst is the world's most valuable
quartz gemstone. Unique for its crystalline structure, it is best
known for its varying shades of violet. This eye-catching quartz
can be found in mauve, lavender, lilac, or the deepest of purple,
offering a shade to fit anyone's taste. Through heating, the stone
can produce gorgeous yellow-hued quartz, called Citrine, as well
as Prasiolite, a lovely green variation.
Where does amethyst come from?
Siberia once had magnificent deposits of amethyst in the Ural Mountains.
The most desired color, deep purple with rose-red tint and even
blue tints, came out of these deposits. Like many ancient gemstone
mines, it was depleted long ago. Today, your amethyst pendant probably
originated in Brazil or Uruguay, though some do come from Sri Lanka,
Mexico and Arizona as well.
Mythology
The name is Greek for "sober." Now, this makes sense once you hear
the story of Bacchus. He was the Roman god of wine and revelry.
One day, he was in a foul mood and set his tigers on the next person
to cross his path. This unlucky person happened to be a maiden named
Amethyst who was on her way to the Goddess Diana's temple. Diana
turned her into a pillar of quartz to stop the tiger attack. Bacchus
was so remorseful; he poured wine over the pillar as an apology
and stained the pillar purple.
As a result, the stone was believed to have the power to stave off
drunkenness. In fact, the ancient Greeks and Romans would carve
drinking goblets from the violet quartz rather than wear them as
amethyst and diamond rings, in an attempt to remain sober as they
drank their wine.
Birthstone for February
Celebrating a birthday in February? You might want to start hinting
for the amethyst and diamond bracelet you've been wanting. As a
February baby, you have a right because it is your birthstone. Of
course, everyone can ask for and wear it, but you have a special
connection.
If your 6th wedding anniversary is coming up, you've got another
opportunity to hint for jewelry made from the crystalline gemstone.
Amethyst rings come in a variety of cuts and colors to fit any personality.
Healing Properties
You already read how the quartz can ward off drunkenness, but it
has other healing properties as well. It is said to have a calming
effect on the wearer invoking peaceful and loving feelings. It also
bestows courage and protection on whoever wears it. Soldiers going
into battle may have worn an amethyst pendant or carried a carving
made from the violet quartz to keep them safe.
How to care for your gemstone
Quartz is fairly strong and this gemstone ranks a 7 in hardness.
It is more than strong enough for everyday wear, but at a mere 1/15th
the hardness of a diamond, taking care with it is recommended. To
bring back the lost sheen of a gemstone ring, soak it in soapy warm
water and wipe with a soft cloth.
About the Author: According to mythology, the ancient Greeks and
Romans would carve drinking goblets from the violet quartz rather
than wear them as a diamond and amethyst ring, so that they could
remain sober as they drank their wine. Find more about this gemstone
at http://www.gemaffair.com.