Amethyst properties

The amethyst, derived from the Greek word "amethystos" (not drunk), gets its name from its color, resembling wine diluted with water. It was believed to protect against drunkenness.

Sometimes referred to as lavandine, this violet gem is a macro-crystalline variety of quartz. Its purple hue, influenced by iron content, varies in intensity.

Resistant to acid, it reveals coffee, orange, or green tones when heated to over 300 degrees, adding a fascinating chromatic diversity to its properties.

History, legends and beliefs about the amethyst

Amethyst has played a prominent role in goldsmithing across various civilizations, rivaling diamonds in value. However, its prestige was diminished by the widespread discovery and exportation of deposits in South America, leading to a significant decrease in its price.

In Egypt, it was highly prized for seal engraving, while warriors wore it to ward off fear in battle.

The origin of amethyst, surrounded by Roman and Greek legends, is always linked to wine.
According to the Greek myth, Dionysus, the god of wine, pursued the young Amethystos, who aspired to chastity. Transformed into a white stone by the goddess Artemis for protection, Dionysus, saddened, poured wine on the stone, imparting the characteristic violet hue. These ancient legends add a captivating mythological dimension to the historical wealth of amethyst.

Another fascinating legend surrounds amethyst, attributing its origin to the anger of Dionysus in response to insults from humans. Seeking revenge, he unleashed his tigers on a young girl, Amethystos. Pleading for the protection of Artemis, she was transformed into white crystal. Filled with remorse, Dionysus, expressing repentance, offered wine to the stone, thus imparting the distinctive hue to amethyst.

Amethyst was particularly dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, adding a divine dimension to this precious gemstone that symbolizes both protection, repentance, and mythical beauty.

The Greeks and Romans, connoisseurs of the pleasures of wine, attributed special properties to amethyst. They used cups adorned with this gemstone, believing it would help them better resist alcohol during their festivities, thus adding a protective dimension to their joyful libations.

In Roman culture, amethyst was specifically associated with Diana, the goddess of the moon and protector of animals, reinforcing its status as a stone linked to nature and divine protection.

In Hebrew tradition, amethyst held a significant place as the ninth stone on the high priest's breastplate, symbolizing the tribe of Ahlamah. It also adorned the gates of the new Jerusalem, emphasizing its importance in the religious and spiritual contexts of different cultures.

During the Middle Ages, the Church embraced amethyst as a powerful symbol of renouncing earthly possessions, obedience to God, and chastity. This spiritual significance was so profound that cardinals and bishops frequently adorned themselves with this precious stone in the form of rings, highlighting their commitment to faith and sacred values. The distinctive color of amethyst was symbolically associated with the blood of Christ and his ultimate sacrifice for humanity, adding a spiritual and sacrificial dimension to this gem.

In popular belief, amethyst was also reputed for offering powerful protection against betrayal. It was believed that this stone had the power to preserve its wearer from the detrimental influences of witchcraft and black magic, further enhancing its reputation as a beneficial talisman with protective virtues.

Mines: Russia, Madagascar, France, Brazil and Uruguay

Healing properties and benefits of the amethyst

• Amethyst, with its soothing properties, is renowned for alleviating physical pain and providing relief during moments of anxiety, offering emotional comfort.
• Possessing a balancing power, this precious stone acts as a protective shield for memory, creating harmony by warding off external negative energies. It plays a crucial role in emotional and mental equilibrium.
• Amethyst has the ability to transform an unpleasant atmosphere into a more pleasant one, bringing positive energy to its surroundings.
• Its relaxing vibration helps reduce muscle contractions and alleviate blood pressure, promoting a state of physical well-being.
• By promoting body balance, amethyst sets the stage for restful sleep, providing natural support for sleep-related issues.
• The benefits of amethyst extend to the treatment of various health problems such as heart disorders, asthma, diabetes, and arthritis, highlighting its versatile healing virtues.
• This stone also aids in preventing depressive states and provides support to women facing fertility issues, fitting into a holistic approach to well-being.
• For children and animals, amethyst is reputed to calm hyperactivity, bringing a soothing influence to their energy.
• Finally, amethyst is known to stimulate hormone production and promote the optimal functioning of the endocrine glands, contributing to hormonal balance.

Amethyst jewelry samples