Amethyst Over the Centuries

Amethyst, a gorgeous semi precious tectosilicate stone, has been used throughout human history for a plethora of uses and is still used every day by people all over the world. This purple and white translucent stone gets its colors from the iron inside of it, and has almost an eerie glow to it when faceted or cut amethyst stones are held by a source of light, like the sun. It's a tough, rugged stone that keeps it's strong physical properties even when cut and shaped into small sizes. Amethyst has been used in jewelry, magical and metaphysical instruments and items, and even healing ceremonies for centuries.

Ever since the ancient Greeks, and even possibly before them, amethyst has been used by humans for things other then just decorative purposes. The stone got it's name by it's purple color, which reminded the ancients of wine. In fact, it's said that ancient Greeks even drank their wine from amethyst cups if they didn't want to get too inebriated. Aside from drink ware, amethyst was used in ancient times in magical ceremonies such as healing, because it was known throughout many ancient cultures to have calming, soothing, and detoxifying properties that could not only cleanse your body and soul, but also rid you of foul and disturbing thoughts and dreams. This stone is the birthstone of February, and has long been associated with the passive behavior of those born in that month.

Amethyst has long since been used as a tool in meditation, because ever since ancient times it has been believed to have properties that can open or extend the view of your "third eye", and even said to increase extra sensory perception. It's also a powerful meditation tool because the stone is said to boost feelings of happiness and contentment, soothing your soul and erasing any bad or negative energy that might be intruding on your meditation.

This stone has also been used for ages in the crafting of magical items and tools. Amethyst has been used in many pagan practices because it's said to cleanse the area and even help to open a clean door to the spiritual world, free of negative influences that might otherwise impede any magical or psychic working. Having amethyst built right into your tools is a good way to keep them clean of bad energy and auras, and make them more useful for the task at hand.

Amethyst stones are also used in crystal healing, and in fact is the most widely used stone for this purpose known today. It is used for pretty much the same reasons that it is used in crafting magical tools and meditation; because of it's soothing and calming properties. Amethyst is used to heal people who are experiencing trauma because of a life experience, an emotional event, or even having reoccurring disturbing nightmares.

Whether you're building tools for your altar, meditating alone at home, or just trying to make a stunning piece of jewelry, amethyst will play a vital part in your endeavor. It's always a good idea to have a spare amethyst cluster lying around!

Sources:
(Some info from Crystal Cure)