Amethyst

Stabilization, Sober Judgment Peace

Once considered more valuable than diamonds, the amethyst gem has long been a favorite of kings and queens for its royal purple hues. Amethysts abound in the ornaments of the British Crown Jewels and were worn by Egyptian royalty. They have been found in ruins dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning royal jewelry, scepters, and crowns. Catherine the Great was so fond of the amethyst that she sent thousands of workers to search for the gem in the Urals; the stones they brought back were prominent among her royal jewels. Many other monarchs admired the amethyst and identified with its supposed power. This admiration is the source of the expression "royal purple."

 

Through the ages, various special properties have also been prescribed to amethyst. The word amethyst is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning sober. In ancient Greece, the gemstone was associated with the god of wine, and it was common practice to serve this beverage from Amethyst goblets in the belief that this would prevent overindulgence. To men, the amethyst promised sober judgment and industry; to women, lofty thoughts and religious love. It was also claimed that amethyst had a sobering effect on those "drunk" on love's passion. Even today, amethyst is considered a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors. Leonardo Da Vinci believed that amethyst could dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence. The stone also is supposed to bring peace of mind to the wearer. In general, the gemstone is believed to be a calming, tranquil influence that symbolizes peace.

 

In some legends, the stone also represents piety, celibacy, dignity, spirituality and devotion to God. Among its reputed benefits was an ability to make the owner more successful in business, protect the soldier and assure victory, help hunters, guard against contagious diseases, and control evil thoughts. It is also believed that amethysts bring on pleasant dreams because they allow you to channel positive universal energy. Amethyst is the traditional anniversary gemstone for the sixth of marriage.

Pat's Birth Stone