Simply gazing upon this exquisite purple gemstone is enough for one to feel calm and peaceful, yet amethyst does more than that. Coveted long ago by royalty and ecclesiastical princes, the seductive-looking amethyst was believed to help protect people against seduction and drunkenness. Today, jewellers in Reading take this gemstone to be considered an apt stone for those born in February.
“Not Intoxicated”
The gemstone’s name is said to be derived from the Greek word “amethystos”, or “not intoxicated”. Ancient Greeks associated its wine-like colour to their god of wine, Dionysus, and was believed to make wearers have a clear head and a quick wit during battle and business affairs.
Amethyst was even mentioned in the Bible, with Moses describing it as a symbol of God’s spirit. Jewish High Priests back then had amethyst embedded on their robes, whilst members of the Catholic clergy, particularly bishops and cardinals, used this gemstone on their jewellery and ornaments to symbolise piety and chastity.
In other cultures, people used amethyst to protect crops against pests, to drive out evil spirits, and to bring good fortune in war. Furthermore, intellectuals historically believed that the gemstone warded off poisonous snake bites, quelled excessive stomach acid, and cleansed one’s mind.
St. Valentine’s and Leonardo Da Vinci’s Stone
Amongst the most prominent people to use amethyst were St. Valentine, the patron saint of romantic love, and famed artist Leonardo da Vinci. It was believed that St. Valentine wore an amethyst ring carved with the image of Cupid. Da Vinci, on the other hand, wrote that amethyst can help a person become more intelligent and rid their minds of negative and evil thoughts.
Astonishing Qualities
Today, amethyst is mined from southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar, though this gemstone can be found all over the world. One particular discerning quality of this stone, other than its distinctive hue, is its ability to change colour when heated. Smoky ones tend to turn yellowish or brownish-red, whilst clear ones become colourless.
Given this characteristic, amethyst may lose their vibrant colour in daylight. Given this, amethyst jewellery should not be worn at the beach or at any place with back light. Wearers should also avoid places with sudden changes of temperatures, as it can be harmful to the stone.
Nevertheless, this gemstone desired by many people from ancient times until today makes for a perfect gift for February birthday celebrants, or even married couples celebrating their sixth or 17th wedding anniversary. Surprise your loved one with jewellery pieces made of this mystical gemstone, available from the trusted independent jewellers in Reading, Jacobs the Jewellers.
Sources:
Amethyst, GIA.edu
Amethyst, International Colored Gemstone Association