Amethyst Crystal Facts
Amethyst is a readily available mineral in the quartz family. It is characterized by a purple color, which comes in many different shades. Associated with certain metaphysical properties, belief in which persists today, amethyst is very popular. It is collected in its natural crystalline state as well as made into cabochon shapes and then worn as jewelry. Astrologically, amethyst is associated with Aquarius, Virgo, Pisces and Capricorn. It is the gemstone for the 17th wedding anniversary and is also the birthstone for the month of February.
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Geography
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Amethyst is common and found throughout the world. Some locations, however, are better known for finding amethyst. Certain shapes and types of amethyst are found in specific locations. Prismatic crystals are found primarily in two Mexican areas: Piedra Parada and Las Vigas de Ramirez. These elongated crystals are rarely faceted. High-quality amethyst also comes from Brazil. In Ametista do Sul, very large geodes, which are a particular form, are found. Very dark and clear amethyst comes from Siberia in Russia.
Greek Origins
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The word "amethyst" comes from the Greek "amethustos," which means "not to intoxicate." According to Greek mythology, Amethyst was the name of a beautiful maiden in the wrong place at the wrong time. The god of wine, Bacchus, was angry at the goddess Diana and, for revenge, vowed to have the next person he saw devoured by tigers. Amethyst was the next person he saw. She sought Diana's protection and was granted it by being turned into a statue of clear stone. Bacchus poured grape wine over the statue, which absorbed its color and was permanently turned purple. From the myth, Greeks believed that drinking from an amethyst cup would prevent intoxication.
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Metaphysical Properties
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Today, the New Age movement, which believes in the ability of minerals and crystals to affect the human body and the environment surrounding them, says amethyst has special healing properties. The stone is said to enhance wisdom, psychic abilities and intuition. It is also said to bring serenity and inner peace. Holding a piece of amethyst in your hand is supposed to reduce stress through its peaceful vibrations. It also allegedly has is the ability to ward of insomnia and promote peaceful sleep.
Distinguishing Traits
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The word "amethyst" has become synonymous with the color purple itself, and many people simply refer to a purple object as being "amethyst" in color. Other gemstones that are purple are often thought to be amethyst and are compared to it.
The mineral comes in long, six-sided crystals, and phantom quartz shapes are sometimes present in the interior of the crystals. These phantom shapes can be composed of other minerals. The depth of color can range from opaque to transparent and can be from the lightest to deepest shades of purple.
Mining
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Amethyst is mined in many locations. Many minerals are found within their natural rock substance formed as thin veins that have to be separated from the rock. Amethyst is not found in veins but is often covering the exterior of its granite surface. The mining technique used is called drift mining, which involves creating a horizontal tunnel in the side of a mountain. These tunnels are called drifts, hence the name. Other rocks that are found through drift mining are gold, coal and zinc.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit raw amethyst image by Igor Groshev from Fotolia.com
