Amethyst Gemstone Beads: History, Features, Folklore and Healing Properties

The priests wore it, the Egyptians treasured it; this is regarding the birthstone Amethyst which is probably one of the most precious stones, rare in deposits and intricate in its properties. Amethyst is one such gem stone which is a quartz deposit produced in the form of colored crystals that are purple or lilac in color. Myths suggest that Amethyst was a stone which prevented 'intoxication' presumably it was used against alcohol addiction. Due to the presence of iron and magnesium in its composition; the crystal maintains the violet shade, its structure being rhombohedra, with a fracture capacity that is conchoidal.

Geological Significance: Amethyst is a stone of the medieval ages, where the first known evidence regarding its history was detected back in Egypt. The recorded excavation where deposits of the crystal were witnessed was in Brazil at Santa Cruz. Although detected late, it is said that the stone originally may contain either manganese which is mainly responsible for the lilac shade.

The foundation stretches across Düsseldorf in Germany where the composition may also contain traces of sulfur and Iron. Medieval periods unearthed amethyst crystals under the Anglo-Saxon graves. It is a state gemstone for South Carolina.

Amethyst crystal is found in unanimously in places like Mexico, Canada, India, Madagascar, Africa, Europe, Uruguay and the United States. Its formation takes places through its mineral, quartz which predominate from igneous and metamorphic rock sediments. Volcanic deposits also contain geode crystals.

Features: Already mentioned above is the basic fact that the manganese concentration is responsible for the purple color and the intensity of the shade depends upon the quantity of iron inside the crystal.

In the field of chemistry; it is referred to as Silicon Dioxide; the compound maintains such constituents whose color changes depending upon the temperature hence below 48 degrees the crystal becomes unstable and starts to lose color and structure. Therefore it has been found that the stone is processed into two types; Ametrine and Citrine.

Amethyst consists of a refractive index which ranges between 1.5-1.6; a tenacity of 6.8-7 on Moh's Scale and sports a crystal structure which is tetrahedral. Amethyst's specific gravity is 6.5 and fracture is conchoidal.

Folklore: Ancient history depicts the stone to be a precious asset to the Egyptians who believed Amethyst guarded individuals from any negative thought / action. They believed in witchcraft and sorcery, hence regarded the stone as a protective shield against dark forces. Due to the psychological and devout properties, legends have it that the stone was known to prevent addiction as was accepted by the Greeks. In fact, it is also known as the Bishop Stone and has a cathedral history attached in its biography. The stone is February stone meant for the zodiac Pisces.

Healing Properties: Apart from being a stone which is known for imparting wisdom, Amethyst is known to relieve people from migraines, stress and hence leaves a calming effect unless the ambience is negative. It is also known as the dream stone which assists the wearer by triggering sleep thus preventing insomnia. The stone protects the mind from deception, offers strength and positivity hence is a spiritual stone purchased not just for being a gem asset but also for its significance in healing and meditation.

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Amethyst - The Stone of Peace and Equilibrium

Amethyst is one of the most popular varieties of Quartz. Its purple color has inspired awe and inspiration throughout human history. Its name is derived from the Greek word "Amethystos" which means "Not drunken"; it's probably because it was believed that owning an Amethyst will ward of drunkenness. Amethysts are often heat treated to change them into Citrines.

Amethysts naturally occur in pyramidal shapes with up to six sides or sometimes as long prismatic crystals; the latter being highly coveted by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors. Experts are also adept at pointing out which mine an Amethyst comes from as the original place of the stone has a lot of importance in determining its price and value in the market.

Often amethysts are named after the place where they are found and are generally labeled as: Siberian, Uruguayan or Bahain; each of these represents the high medium and low grade quality of the stone. Amethysts are often cut into the Round Brilliant and Oval shapes in order to hide its patchy color distribution. Other cuts (such as princess, marquis and heart) are used on it when Because of the patchy nature of the color distribution in the crystals, Amethyst is often cut as brilliant round cuts to maximize the color. Other cuts can be used when the color is better distributed.

The royalty of almost every nation has also been fascinated with this gem given its purple color. Purple has long been associated with power and authority and this is why it has always been used in scepters, robes, and head dresses of the nobility, monarchs and merchants. Today however you do not have to be nobility to enjoy this beautiful gem. Amethysts are now available in a multitude of cuts and various shades of purple which can be possessed by all.

Besides its uses in warding off evil influences, during the older ages Amethysts also found use in medicine and was given for cleansing a person off excessive stomach acid, combat insect bites and also bring calmness and serenity to the character.

Amethysts have inspired legends and lore throughout the world and the gemstone continues to be in vogue even till this day. Its royal purple color coupled with the beautiful gleam and shine that it presents is really un-matched at the price point at which it is generally available. Amethyst jewelry is really popular and can be found in jaw dropping designs and shapes.

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