The History and Folklore of Amethyst
Amethyst is regarded as a stone of protection and clarity. It has been associated with symbolic and spiritual importance throughout numerous ancient civilisations. Amethyst's fascination has persisted, from ancient legends about gods and monarchy to contemporary crystal treatment.
Amethyst in Ancient Greece and Rome
It is from the Ancient Greek word "amethystos" that the gemstone amethyst gets its name. This term means "not intoxicated". The ancient Greeks believed that this stone could prevent one from being intoxicated.
It is said that Dionysus, the god of wine, became enraged by a mortal and made a solemn pledge to unleash his wrath on the next person he came into contact with. When he came upon a young lady by the name of Amethyst, she prayed to the goddess Artemis for protection. The goddess Artemis transformed her into a statue made of white quartz, and Dionysus, overcome with guilt, poured wine over the statue, causing it to turn a deep purple colour. The ancient Greeks believed that amethyst could protect them from overindulgence and intoxication, so they wore it as a talisman.
Much like the Greeks, the Romans believed that amethyst could protect against intoxication. As a result, they included it in their drinking cups in the hope that it would prevent them from being intoxicated. Additionally, amethyst was a symbol of wealth and prestige, frequently worn by Roman nobility and employed in other decorative pieces.
Amethyst in Ancient Egypt
During the time of the ancient Egyptians, amethyst was frequently carved into amulets because of its association with protection. In ancient Egypt, people believed that it could protect them from fear, harm, and thoughts of guilt. For the purpose of safeguarding the deceased in the hereafter, it was utilised in burials, and the deep purple colour of the object represented divine favour and majesty.
Amethyst in Christianity and the Middle Ages
Amethyst was regarded as a stone of spirituality and holiness during the Middle Ages when it was highly revered in the Christian religion. This was especially true during the Middle Ages. Bishops and other high-ranking members of the clergy wore it as a symbol of their virginity and loyalty to the church. It is still common practice for bishops to wear rings frequently embellished with amethyst, cementing the long-standing connection between amethyst and spiritual authority.
During the Middle Ages, people believed that amethyst could not only treat conditions like headaches and insomnia but it could also protect against negative thoughts and help prevent them from occurring. In the belief that it would provide them with both courage and protection, mediaeval troops wore amethyst amulets while they were engaged in combat.
Amethyst in The Renaissance
Amethyst came to be seen as a symbol of royalty, riches, and power throughout the Renaissance period in Europe. The stone was valued by kings, with Catherine the Great of Russia being a well-known example of someone who admired it. During this period, it was supposed to bring about intelligence and clarity, leading to its popularity among scholars and royalty alike.
Amethyst in Modern Crystal Healing
Amethyst is considered a stone that brings about calm, balance, and protection. Meditation practices frequently make use of it as a means of promoting spiritual development and bringing about mental calmness. Crystal healers believe that amethyst promotes clarity, intuition, and emotional balance, which in turn helps to alleviate tension and anxiety. Because of its connection to the crown chakra, it is associated with greater levels of consciousness and wisdom on a spiritual level.
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Perrakis, A. (2019). Crystal Lore, Legends & Myths: The Fascinating History of the World's Most Powerful Gems and Stones.
