What is Amethyst?
Purple Amethyst is one of the most popular crystals. This stone is in fact part of the quartz family and has been used as far back as Ancient Egypt for gemstone jewellery, ceramics and even building materials. In Ancient Greece, Amethyst was used to prevent drunkenness!
Purple Amethyst gets its colour from iron interacting with the silicone in the rock. Some Amethyst is heat treated and this can make the colour more vibrant. Amethyst is found in quite a few places around the world. I believe the best colour and quality stone comes from Brazil and Uruguay. This is where I source my crystal clusters and generators. The Amethyst is always deep purple and has great clarity with gemmy points.
Metaphysical Properties of Amethyst
Amethyst has metaphysical healing properties that are based on the third eye and crown chakra as it brings calmness to the mind, assists in meditation or visualising goals and can bring vivid dreams. Some people like to keep Amethyst by the bedside to assist with dreaming and sleep. If you are sensitive or an empath, you may find Amethyst causes insomnia and is best kept in living spaces or a study.
Chakra: Third Eye and Crown
Zodiac: Pisces and Aquarius
How to use Amethyst
- Amethyst makes for beautiful statement decor in the home.
- Assist with meditation and visualising your future.
- Makes a great gift for someone who is experiencing stress.
- Carry or wear Amethyst for protection against negativity. Crystal jewellery is great for this.
- Use your Amethyst to re-charge other crystals in your collection. Read more about cleansing crystals here.
- It works quite well with Rose Quartz (read about Rose Quartz properties). Amethyst can draw off the negative energy and transmute it into positive energy.
Crystal Affirmations
- I am aware and awake.
- I am deeply loved and protected by the universe.
- I release self-limiting beliefs.
Real or Fake Amethyst?
The most common change to Amethyst is heat treatment when making Citrine. This is where Amethyst is 'baked' at very high temperatures causing the stone to change to a golden colour. This is something to be aware of when sourcing natural Citrine or heat treated Citrine. It doesn't make it a fake crystal. It still holds metaphysical properties although, these are now different to the natural crystal version.
Conclusion
Amethyst is a versatile stone and comes in many colours including the very popular Pink Amethyst and Black Amethyst. Which ever colour you are drawn to, Amethyst is a great stone to have in your crystal collection.