Amethyst, A Regal Stone and the Birthstone of February

What is it about Amethyst that has made it the stuff of legends and myths?  Why are we so drawn to its purple magnificence?  Whether its crystals are left natural, polished as tumbled stones, or faceted into magnificent jewels, Amethyst is a gem whose beauty transcends its commonality and has enraptured humans for a millennium. 

Amethyst may be the oldest gemstone used by mankind. It was used as a decorative stone and for personal adornment as far back as 25,000 B.C..  It was found with the remains of Neolithic man in France as well as all over Europe.

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During the Middle Ages Amethyst was adopted by the Catholic church as a symbol of the high spiritual state bishops must attain. Consequently, Amethyst rings became part of a bishops regalia and symbol of their office.  To this day the highest grade of Amethyst is referred to as “Bishops Grade”  Possibly because of its association with the Catholic clergy Amethyst came to represent purity and piety. The Medieval period also found European soldiers wearing Amethyst amulets into battle to protect them from harm.

By today’s classification, Amethyst is a semi-precious stone, but to our ancestors, it was a “Gem of Fire"; a precious stone whose worth, at times in history, exceeded that Diamonds. Amethyst has always been associated with February, the month the Romans dedicated to Neptune, their water-god. It is the stone of St. Valentine and faithful love.  This purple, regal gem is connected to the third eye and crown chakras and has long been a symbol of peace, cleansing and calming energy.

Amethyst is believed to have healing properties that protect the bearer against negative energies. Some believe that the stone’s calming properties produce soothing dreams by making us more in tune with the divine. The stone also brings clarity and peacefulness to the waking mind, as they help the mind flow freely in both the mental and metaphysical dimensions.

This amazing stone is also known as a stress reliever and helps detoxify your body.  The literal meaning of Amethyst is “not intoxicated” - derived from the Greek word “ametusthos”. Amethyst represent purification and connection to spiritual and divine beings. The meaning of amethyst is attached to serenity, understanding, trust and grace. Many cultures have linked spiritual overtones to this gem. This purple gem is also thought to have wonderful, positive effects of creativity and imaginative powers by enhancing intuition. It empowers its wearer to embrace new ideas and to put their thoughts into action.  

This February, give the gift of Amethyst