Amethyst Crystal Meaning: Healing Properties & Uses

What is Amethyst Crystal?

Alongside Rose Quartz, Black Tourmaline and Citrine, Amethyst is one of the most beloved and most powerful energy crystals out there. Amethyst is a variety of Quartz crystals and a silicate mineral. Its rich purple colors emerge due to iron, irradiation, and transition metal impurities. This variety of combinations results in a complex crystal structure, which gives Amethyst a mesmerizing look and a durable profile.

If you're looking to expand your knowledge on this gorgeous stone, you're in the perfect place to do so. This blog post will reveal the meaning of amethyst, history, metaphysical properties, benefits, chakra connection, and so much more.

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The Origins & History of Amethyst

Did you know that Amethyst dates back as early as 200 BC? A favorite amongst Ancient Greek philosophers, Egyptian spiritual leaders, and even Catholic Bishops, this stone has indeed an epic tale to tell.

Now, why "amethyst"? In ancient and modern Greek, "Amethystos" means "not drunk." The word "ἀμέθυστος" (amethystos) can be dissected into two parts: "a-" meaning "not" and "methystos" from "μεθύω" (methuo), which means "to intoxicate." It comes as no surprise that Ancient Greeks thought wearing this stone would keep you from getting too tipsy. Handy at parties, right? Especially those gatherings where wine flowed freely as philosophers debated the nature of the universe.

Naturally, this belief also ties back to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, festivities, and ecstasy. How, you may wonder? The legend says that there was a young maiden called "Amethyst" who rejected Dionysos' flirtation. Artemis, the goddess of wildlife, transformed the young girl into a transparent stone to save her from his wrath. In remorse, Dionysus poured wine over the crystal, dyeing it with its characteristic, rich purple color.

Over time, the amethyst meaning of clarity and protection has been embraced by various cultures. Egyptian spiritual leaders, for instance, celebrated Amethyst for its ability to connect the physical with the divine. They believed that by wearing Amethyst amulets, they could open the portal to the metaphysical world and connect with the wisdom of the Gods. Moreover, Amethyst was also used in burial ceremonies to guide the departed.

Similarly, Bishops from the Catholic Church have historically worn Amethyst rings as a symbol of sobriety, purity, and morality. In medieval Europe, soldiers wore Amethyst into battle, believing it could keep them calm and protect them from harm.

Amethyst, with its rich purple hue, has been a symbol of royalty, a protector against intoxication and harm, and a bridge to the divine across various cultures. And if you've ever stumbled over the Amethyst pronunciation, just mumble "am-eh-thist"—as simple and elegant as the stone itself.

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Healing Properties & Benefits of Amethyst

Amethyst is celebrated not only for its stunning purple color and metaphysical properties but also for its plethora of healing benefits.

Physical Healing Properties

While not proven scientifically, alternative practitioners and gemstone lovers claim that Amethyst crystals can aid physical healing.

Natural Amethyst is said to help the endocrine system, this complex but marvelous network that makes hormones. Hormones are like the body's messengers, influencing how we grow, our mood swings, and even how we metabolize food. Believers in Amethyst's power say it promotes the overall function of the endocrine glands, fostering a harmonious balance within our bodies.

For those for whom a good night's sleep seems impossible, Amethyst can also offer a big helping hand. Known as a natural tranquilizer, its calming energy is believed to soothe the mind and ease anxiety, making it easier to drift off into a restful sleep.

But Amethyst's benefits don't stop here. The gemstone is also thought to have a positive effect on the immune system. Think of this gorgeous stone as a shield against illness, boosting your body's defenses. Its healing vibrations are also said to enhance the body's healing ability, supporting quicker recovery from physical ailments.

Moreover, Amethyst is linked with improving the body's detoxification processes. It's believed to support the cleansing of the blood, helping to remove toxins and impurities.

Additionally, Amethyst's influence extends to relieving physical discomfort. Some users find it helpful in soothing headaches, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain, making it a favored choice for holistic pain management.

Mental & Emotional Healing Properties

Those inspiring and metaphysical Amethyst properties translate to benefits for your body, mind, and soul. Whether you wear Amethyst jewelry, meditate or sleep with it, these benefits are all yours if you welcome some purple Amethyst into your life:

Mind

The Amethyst stone features energy of contentment that will wash away the daily pressure and set you on a much more relaxed and stress-free life. This crystal nurtures your intuition and allows you to create an aura of calming vibrations.

With intense energy that boosts your decision-making, the crystal keeps your mind sharp and helps you break through any negative patterns in life - even addiction. This crystal will empower you to have ultimate trust in yourself and let your spirit flow on a much more positive vibe.

Soul

Are negative thoughts and memories not letting you concentrate or prepare for an important meeting? Break these negative energy patterns and shield yourself with a spiritual barrier. And that's why Amethyst is beloved among the spiritual community - for its unique metaphysical properties and an ability to soothe and protect the mind simultaneously. 

Body

While not proven scientifically, some claim that Amethyst crystals can aid physical healing. Some of the main properties include:

• enhancing the immune system
• improving endocrine function
• improving the skin's appearance
• promoting digestive health
• reducing headaches

Some of these benefits may be tangible, but there isn't any concrete scientific research and proof behind these claims.

Metaphysical Properties

Spirituality is mysterious, exciting, and liberating, yet, often it seems that a spiritual awakening is hard to achieve. With Amethyst stone, you'll bridge that gap between you and the spiritual realms because your third eye will start to awake.

Amethyst is closely tied to the Third Eye and intuition, making it one of the most spiritual crystals out there. The metaphysical properties of the Amethyst can shift the perception of reality and keep the third eye chakra balanced—to boost not only intuition and inner wisdom but also avoid anxious and depressive feelings.

But there's more to it. Amethyst doesn't just open the door to the divine; it's also like a shield, guarding you from negativity and bad vibes that can throw you off your path. Imagine moving through your day with an invisible protector, keeping you clear-headed and heart-centered, no matter what comes your way.

Those inspiring and metaphysical Amethyst properties translate to benefits for your body, mind, and soul. Whether you wear Amethyst jewelry, meditate, or sleep with it, these benefits are all yours if you welcome some natural Amethyst into your life.

Upper Chakra Connections of Amethyst

Amethyst crystal has another special thing going for it. And that is a direct connection with your sacred energy center, also known as the crown chakra & third eye.

The Sahasrara Chakra is our highest chakra, located on the very top of our head. As its name implies, it sits like a crown, radiating upwards. When the Crown Chakra is blocked, we feel disconnected from the world, struggling to find our true purpose. When you fully open your Crown Chakra, you access a higher power, feeling in perfect balance with all of the Universe. Amethyst's high vibrational energy is thought to facilitate this connection, promoting spiritual growth and a sense of peace that transcends our physical existence.

Sitting in the center of the forehead, the Third Eye Chakra is the doorway to our intuition, inner wisdom, and divinity. When this chakra is blocked, you may feel spiritually confused and incapable of tapping into your intuition and instincts. However, when your Third Eye Chakra is balanced, you feel balanced as well, able to see the world and understand it. Amethyst, with its calming and purifying energy, is believed to help unblock and balance the Third Eye Chakra, enhancing intuition and opening the mind to a deeper understanding of the self and the Universe.

This connection may be a game-changer to your overall spirituality and wellbeing as the blocked crown & third eye chakra chakra can be responsible for:

• Feeling detached and uninspired
• Being more skeptical and stubborn than usual
• You're becoming focused on the material world
• A lot of things seem meaningless
• Lack of concentration
• heightened sense of intuition
• Clarity of thought
• Increased awareness of one's surroundings

Get that purple connection going, and don't let ego get in your way too much. There will be more harmony in one's wisdom when the crown & third eye chakra is healthy and active.

Amethyst Birthstone Meaning & Astrology

Purple Amethyst stone also enjoys fame in the world of Astrology as the birthstone of Aquarius - a zodiac sign born in February.

Amethyst stone meaning is extra special to those born under this sign. It is known to balance emotions with intelligence, and it may also help Aquarians get in touch with their inner selves and teach them to trust their intuition. 

Whether it's a giant Amethyst cluster or a subtle Amethyst ring, it can be a significant gift for someone born in February.

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Amethyst Geological Properties

After taking a brief look into the origin and the ancient tales that surround Amethyst, it's clear this gemstone is not just another pretty rock. Its geological properties add another layer of fascination to its already rich history.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz crystals and a silicate mineral. Its rich purple colors emerge due to iron, irradiation, and transition metals impurities.

This variety of combinations result in a complex crystal structure and gives Amethyst a pretty look and a durable profile at the same time.

The Mohs scale shows mineral hardness and the scratch resistance of crystals and stones through their ability to scratch softer material in a qualitative ordinal scale, from 1 to 10.

Amethyst stone has a score of 7 on Moh's hardness scale, a number indicating longevity, and that Amethyst jewelry can be used extensively. In general, it's a durable crystal as long as basic care and precautions are followed.

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Amethyst's Color Zonning & Varieties

The lovely purple stone is found worldwide - from Siberia and Sri Lanka to Brazil, Uruguay, and beyond. But is there a difference where the crystal is sourced?

The superior grade of Amethyst comes from Siberia. It is called "Deep Siberian," with a primary purple hue of around 75–80%, 15–20% blue, and (depending on the light source) some secondary red hues.

Its primary hues are deep purple or light violet, and secondary colors may occur in a reddish-purple or more distinct red-and-blue mix. Here's a closer look at some of the most captivating variations of natural Amethyst:

Ametrine

What happens when Amethysts interweave with sunny Citrine? Ametrine is born. It's a two-in-one stone that works wonders in sparking creativity and inspiring you when you're feeling stuck or simply… bored.

Cactus Quartz

This may be the cutest variation. Cactus quartz looks like a little cactus covered in sparkly purple. It is said to bring positive energy and is most powerful when used by people who already have a strong foundation in their relationships.

Canadian or Pink Amethyst 

This rare kind of Amethyst has very similar properties to Rose Quartz. Pink Amethyst is found in Canada, and its soft energy is all about spreading love and healing hearts.

Lavender Amethyst

As the name gives away, this variation of Amethyst is known for its gorgeous lavender color. It's lighter than the deep purple Amethyst we all know and is perfect for helping you feel relaxed and clear-headed.

Prasiolite

The Green amethyst, also called prasiolite, mainly comes from Brazil and stirs debate about its origin. Some say it's just heat-treated amethyst turning green, while others claim it's naturally occurring. True prasiolite is rare in nature, leading to confusion about whether it should be called green quartz instead.

Veracruz

Veracruz amethysts grow in holes of volcanic rock, getting their purple from iron and sunlight effects. They often appear with green epidote, in cool shapes that show off their volcanic roots.

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How to Use Amethyst?

One of the best things about Amethyst is that it can be used in various ways due to its vibrant looks and spiritual significance. Here's how you can use Amethyst in your everyday life:

Wearing Amethyst

Wearing Amethyst jewelry is a beautiful experience as the purple stone will blend into any space, attire, or situation.

Wearing Amethyst on your left hand, specifically in the form of rings or bracelets, aligns with the belief that this side of the body is more receptive to the healing energy of crystals. If you're thinking about the elegant side of things, Amethyst Ring like this will accompany you gracefully. And if you're looking to wear something for your spiritual practice, a Natural Amethyst Pendulum Necklace can be a unique and powerful choice. 

indeed, opting for an Amethyst necklace brings the stone close to your heart, a place where it's said to have the most impact. This proximity is thought to nurture a sense of calm and stimulate creativity, making it ideal for those seeking to infuse their day with peace and imaginative spark.You can also step into the world of luxury with an emerald-cut Amethyst ring.

And let's not forget about the role of Amethyst in the jewelry industry. Its mesmerizing purple hue has made it a favorite among designers and wearers alike, turning it into a staple piece that adds elegance and a touch of luxury to any ensemble. But beyond its beauty, wearing Amethyst jewelry is about connecting with the stone's serene vibrations, allowing you to navigate your day with more grace and confidence.

In the end, choosing how to wear Amethyst should just make you happy and feel a bit more balanced. Whether that’s through a bold necklace, a discreet ring, or a chic bracelet, it’s all about adding a touch of beauty to your day and, maybe, a bit of peace and creativity too.

Who Should Wear Amethyst?

Choosing to wear a crystal often comes down to a gut feeling. If Amethyst speaks to you, chances are it's a match. Amethyst is especially suited for those seeking calm and clarity. Amethyst could also be beneficial for those looking to deepen their intuition or seeking spiritual growth.

Who Should Not Wear Amethyst?

Though Amethyst is generally seen as beneficial, it might not be for everyone. For instance, people who are extremely sensitive to crystal energies might experience Amethyst as too quieting. If you're someone who needs more energetic or grounding stones to feel balanced, Amethyst might not be the best fit for you.

Amethyst in Feng Shui Practice: Home & Workplace Decor

Amethyst clusters, geodes, points, and similar free-standing shapes make a lovely decoration. Not only will you adore your surroundings with great visual aesthetics, but you'll love the feeling of peace and protection.

Amethyst stone is also famous in Feng Shui practice. It is known to activate Qun (Wealth & Prosperity) area in the Feng Shui Bagua Map - primarily because of its relation to purple (yes, another purple connection.)

To locate the Xun, or your wealth area, stand at the front door of your home and find the far left corner. Place natural Amethyst crystal there to engage in Feng Shui practice, elevate your financial freedom, and invite more abundance.

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How To Cleanse & Care For Natural Amethyst Crystal

To keep the Amethyst meaning profound, its energy firm, and the vibrant looks shining, the purple Amethyst crystal must be cleansed and adequately cared for.

How to care for Amethyst:

Amethyst stone has a score of 7 on Moh's hardness scale, a number indicating longevity, and that Amethyst jewelry can be used extensively. In general, it's a durable crystal as long as basic care and precautions are followed.

Amethyst can be damaged in many ways - from abrupt temperature changes and prolonged exposure to intense light to hydrofluoric acid and alkaline solutions. Avoid these things to keep your stone in the best shape possible.

If you need to clean the stone, it can be safely done with gently warm soapy water. Steam cleaning is not recommended as high-temperature heat can fracture Amethyst crystals.

Store Amethyst jewelry in any box to prevent unnecessary scratching or accidental damage.

How to cleanse Amethyst:

While there are many methods to choose from, not all are suitable for Amethyst. Here's the list of cleansing methods to use and avoid:

• Water: Use running or saltwater for easy and safe cleaning. Amethyst is perfectly suitable for submerged under saltwater or left for a minute under running water.
• Sunlight: Avoid cleansing Amethyst in sunlight as it may fade the color and damage the surface. But if you are keen to cleanse it this way, try to do it at dusk or dawn when the light is soft.
• Smudging: Use the sacred plant Sage and waft the smoke around your Amethyst for a minute to cleanse your Amethyst safely and quickly.
• Moonlight: Leave it to bask in moonlight overnight, especially during a full moon.

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Identifying Real Amethyst Crystal

Gemologists grade the Amethyst crystal by evaluating its color, including details such as clarity and visible inclusions. Overall, the deeper the shade of purple quartz, the better the quality of the Amethyst.

But not all of us have that deep knowledge on gemstones and their natural formations. If you want to ensure that your Amethyst crystals or jewelry are 100% natural and authentic, here’s what you need to know:

Color: Real Amethysts boast a range of purple shades, from soft lavender to rich violet. Natural variations in color, especially if they show a mix of deeper and lighter purples within the same stone, are a good sign of authenticity. Be wary of stones that are uniformly colored or unnaturally vibrant; they might be fake.

Clarity: Genuine Amethyst can have some natural flaws or inclusions, but they should be minimal. If you look closely, you might see tiny lines or features within the stone, which are normal. A completely flawless Amethyst could be synthetic or treated, while one with too many visible marks might not be the best quality.

Cut: The cut of an Amethyst affects how it reflects light and shows its color. Authentic Amethysts can be cut into various shapes to enhance their beauty. If the cut is too perfect or the facets don't seem to align well with the natural features of the stone, it might be a clue that the Amethyst isn't real.

Carat: Size matters, but it's not the only thing. Large Amethysts are not uncommon, but their value goes up with their size, especially if they also excel in color, clarity, and cut. A very large, perfect-looking stone at a low price should raise some eyebrows.

Amethyst’s Density

The density of an Amethyst tells us about its compactness and weight for its size. Real Amethyst has a specific feel to it—solid but not too heavy. If you've got a few gemstones to compare, a real Amethyst should feel a bit heavier than fake ones made of glass or plastic but not as heavy as denser stones like diamonds.

This test is a bit more subtle and takes a hands-on approach. If an Amethyst feels suspiciously light or unnaturally heavy for its size, it might be worth taking a closer look or getting a second opinion from a professional.
Identifying Real Amethyst Crystal


Flame Test 

Scratch Test

Light and UV Test

Magnifying Glass Test

Grab a magnifying glass and take a closer look at your crystal. You’re looking for imperfections, natural variations, and unique inclusions.

Buy from a reputable source or an expert

Identifying a real Amethyst involves a combination of observations and tests, from assessing the 4 C's to conducting more hands-on authenticity checks. By familiarizing yourself with these methods, you will ensure that your crystals are natural and ready to give you all the benefits they are known for.

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Final thoughts about Amthyst

Amethyst is one of the most loved and, let's admit it, gorgeous crystals in the mineral kingdom. Its purple hues range from the softest lavender to the deepest violet, reminding us of the sky at dusk. Beyond its undeniable beauty, this crystal carries a rich history and a special place in the crystal healing community.

Ancient royalty adorned themselves with Amethyst, believing it to be their spiritual compass through the most challenging times. Its luxurious purple hue has a unique ability; it evokes your inner wisdom and helps you tap into the depths of your spirituality. Its vibrations are said to be the highest in the mineral kingdom, allowing you to open your mind to a deeper level of awareness.

Whether worn as a piece of jewelry, placed in a home as a decorative element, or used in meditation practices, Amethyst is a constant reminder of the peace and clarity we strive for daily.

While the scientific community may not fully endorse the healing benefits attributed to Amethyst, the testimonials of those who feel positively impacted by its presence are hard to ignore.

Whether you're drawn to Amethyst for its aesthetic appeal, healing properties, or historical significance, this gemstone offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and the deeper parts of ourselves. 

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Amethyst FAQ’s 

What does Amethyst do? 

In a nutshell, Amethyst is thought to foster creativity, support inner peace, and enhance intuition. This beautiful purple gemstone is believed to have a calming influence, making it ideal for meditation and promoting serenity of mind.

What is Amethyst good for?

Amethyst is ideal for those seeking calmness and a boost in creativity. It aids in reducing stress, promoting emotional balance, and enhancing intuition. Perfect for mindful souls and creative thinkers who wish to deepen their focus and find peace in their daily lives.

What does Amethyst look like?

Amethyst is recognized for its striking range of purple colors, from light lavender shades to deep, rich violets. Its appearance is often characterized by a transparent to translucent clarity, allowing light to pass through and showcase its vibrant color

Can Amethyst go into water?

Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it's relatively water-proof. The stone can be placed in water briefly for cleaning, but prolonged exposure might fade its color and shine.

Does amethyst have Iron?

Yes, Amethyst contains iron. The presence of iron impurities within the quartz crystal structure is actually what gives Amethyst its characteristic purple color.

What is the color of Amethyst?

The color of Amethyst ranges from light lavender and lilac to deep purple. Some Amethysts can also show shades of red or blue within their purple hues, especially when exposed to light from different angles.

Is Amethyst stone dangerous?

No, Amethyst is not dangerous. It's a popular stone used in jewelry and for meditation without known adverse effects.

How to activate & charge Amethyst?

You can use various methods to activate and charge Amethyst: moonlight or smudging tools such as sage, Palo Santo, and incense. You can also do it through meditation and intention setting. 

How to cleanse Amethyst?

Rinse under running water and pat dry, or pass it through smoke from burning sage to cleanse its energy. Alternatively, you can use moonlight or smudging tools such as sage, Palo Santo, and incense. 

Does Amethyst cleanse other stones?

Yes, it's said that placing other crystals near or on an Amethyst cluster or geode can clear them of any negative or stagnant energy, essentially "resetting" them to their natural vibrational state. 

Where is Amethyst found?

Amethyst is found in several places around the world, with major deposits in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Zambia.

What’s the price of Amethyst?

The price of Tiger’s Eye can change a lot depending on quality, size, color, clarity, and origin. 

Where to buy Amethyst stones?

Tiger’s Eye stones can be purchased from multiple places, both online and offline. To ensure authenticity, it’s important to resort to trustworthy sources that offer lab-certified crystals like the Mindful Souls e-store.

Does Agate go with Amethyst?

Yes, Agate and Amethyst can complement each other very well. Agate is known for its grounding and stabilizing properties, while Amethyst is celebrated for its ability to promote calmness, intuition, and spiritual growth. Together, they can create a balanced energy that supports both grounding and higher consciousness.