Amethyst Gemstone

Violet to red-purple quartz is called amethyst. The name comes from the Greek A-methystos, meaning “not tipsy.” It is the same formula as Quartz (SiO2) with the addition of iron. Its hardness is 7.

Amethyst and magic have been connected for at least 2,000 years. The Greeks believed it to be an amulet against intoxication. It is one of the few stones specifically recommended for men to use for attracting women. Amethyst is the birthstone for February.
According to the legend, amethyst stone originated when Bacchus, the God of Wine, grew angry at mortals. He vowed the next mortal that crossed his path would be eaten by his tigers. At that time, a beautiful young maiden named Amethyst was on her way up the hill to worship at the temple of the Goddess Diana. Diana, knowing of Bacchus' vow, turned Amethyst into a pillar of colorless quartz to protect her from the tigers.

Bacchus, witnessing the miracle, repented and wept tears of wine over Amethyst, staining the crystal encasing her purple.

This stone is the major stone for the Crown Chakra. This location deals with extrasensory perception. In addition, it can be used in this position for healing of the nervous system and the brain. Amethyst is recommended for those who are hyper and anxious, as a calming stone. Also, for anyone addicted to alcohol or other mind/mood altering drugs.

Amethyst can be used to increase psychic awareness, to sharpen the 'sixth sense'. Because of this, many people keep a crystal with their I-Ching, tarot, or Rune tools. It is considered a very spiritual stone.

Amethyst is often found in Quartz geodes. Gem quality stones come from Brazil, Uruguay, the Ural Mountains and Japan. Fine deep-colored amethyst occurs in the quarries in Patterson, New Jersey. Drusy amethyst (generally paler in color) is abundant in many silver mines in Mexico. Some specimens have been found in the Four Peaks region of Arizona.

Heat treating Amethyst will change it from purple to brown or yellow, and many Citrines on the market are created this way. Amethyst from one particular mine in Brazil will turn green when heated. It is marked under the name of prasiolite. (Although this is actually the name of an entirely different mineral.

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