Precious and Semi Precious Stones: Amethyst Gemstone- Semi Precious Stone

Crystalline quartz in shades of purple, lilac or mauve is called amethyst, a stone traditionally worn to guard against drunkeness and to instill a sober mind. The word amethyst comes from the Greek meaning "without drunkenness" and amethyst is believed to protect one from poison.

Its colour is as unique as it is seductive, though in fact this gemstone of all gemstones is said to protect its wearer against seduction. The amethyst is extravagance in violet. For many thousands of years, the most striking representative of the quartz family has been a jewel coveted by princes both ecclesiastical and secular. Moses described it as a symbol of the Spirit of God in the official robes of the High Priest of the Jews, and the Russian Empress Catherine the Great sent thousands of miners into the Urals to look for it. In popular belief, the amethyst offers protection against drunkenness - for the Greek words 'amethystos' mean 'not intoxicated' in translation. A more apt stone for the month of February, particularly if there is to be plenty going on in the way of carnival celebrations, could thus hardly be wished for.

Amethyst is a member of the quartz family, and considered a master healer. Coloured by iron, amethyst usually forms geodes of densely packed short crystals all pointing inwards towards the centre of the hollow. Amethyst is one of the most popular crystal types and is a must have for any healer or collector.

Amethyst whether in its natural form or sculpted into shapes make excellent ornaments for the home or office, and will make the space feel clean and calm, by picking up and clearing negative thoughts that are emitted. You will feel less stressed and should be able to work for longer periods of time.

Amethyst is an extremely soothing stone, which is good for psychic and spiritual development, bereavement and letting go of unhealthy thought or behaviour patterns. It is powerfully healing and cleansing, and can be used to block geopathic stress and negative energies in the environment, especially when a cluster is used. It is helpful in assisting sleep and relieving headaches, strengthens the endocrine and immune systems, acts as a pain reliever, and is a good all-round healing crystal.

Amethyst helps boost your immune system by stimulation blood flow and circulation. It is superb in treating any bacterial infection and can also be used to help acne suffers.

Amethyst can help people suffering from addictions and allergies and it is also said to help with the symptoms of chest complaints.

Amethyst can be used by anyone who is feeling down or generally low.

Amethyst is extremely relaxing and helps calm the mind, thus reliving stress. Amethyst also helps boost creativity.

Amethyst works very well with the crown chakra, and it also helps clear your aura.

Varieties of amethyst-

1. Green Amethyst

Colour - Pale green