. . . Amethysts!!!
Amethyst is the traditional February birthstone and the accepted gem for the 6th wedding anniversary. It is also the birth stone for the Zodiac sign of Pisces
Amethyst is a variety of quartz which occurs in transparent light to dark purple. The darker more intense colors are more valuable than the lighter smoky or lavender color. The two main sources are Brazil and Zambia although it is also found in Uruguay, Russia, Sri Lanka, Mexico, and the US state of Arizona.
According to legend, amethyst originated when Bacchus, the God of Wine, grew angry at mortals. He vowed the next mortal that crossed his path would be eaten by tigers. At that time, a beautiful young maiden named Amethyst was on her way to worship the Goddess Diana. Diana, knowing of Bacchus vow, turned Amethyst into a pillar of colorless quartz to protect her from the tigers. Bacchus, witnessing the miracle, repented and poured wine over Amethyst, staining her purple.
Amethyst has long been called the "sobriety stone." In ancient Rome, crushed amethyst was added to wine cups to prevent drunkenness. It is said to assist with healing alcoholism, compulsive behaviors, and addictions of all kinds.
It is a meditative and calming stone, working in the emotional, spiritual, and physical planes to provide calm, balance, patience, and peace. When worn it may help to make the wearer gentle and amiable. Emotionally, amethyst can help heal personal losses and grief.
Amethyst powers include: dreams, healing, peace, love, spiritual upliftment, courage, psychism, protection against thieves, and happiness. It is also beneficial when dealing with legal problems and money issues, leading to prosperity and abundance.
Amethyst is used as faceted stones or polished cabochons and is carved in various shapes. Amethyst beads are used in necklaces, earrings and other jewelry in both rough unpolished forms, smooth glossy shapes, faceted beads and briolettes.
One of the largest cut amethysts in the world is 343 carats and is housed at the National History Museum in London.
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3 comments:
Nice article!
This is my birthstone! Thanks for the information.
June of Mandala Jewels
Oh I do love amethyst. It must be the calming thing. :)
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