GEMMOLOGICAL QUALITIES
Purple variety of the quartz mineral species.
Colour: Pale lavender purple through to rich violet. Colour is due to the presence of iron within the crystal lattice and a process of natural irradiation.
Common geological occurrences: Brazil, Uruguay, South Africa, Africa, Mexico & Australia
Crystallography: Amethyst belongs to the trigonal crystal system and forms as six sided singly terminated crystals, typically in clusters or druses in cavities and geodes. Prismatic crystals show striations perpendicular to the length of the prism face.
Geodes: Amethyst geodes are magnificent underground cavities lined with crystals pointing inward. Deep in the earth’s crust, these pockets are formed by volcanic action over hundreds of thousands of years. Mineral-rich solutions containing a high saturation of silica fill the voids and through years of slow cooling the crystallisation process begins. In the initial quick-cooling stages fine layers of microcrystalline crystals are deposited in the form of agate, chalcedony or jasper. As the cooling process slows down, the crystals increase in size with the final layer being that of large amethyst points.
Uniquely, amethyst and citrine (yellow variety of quartz) both form through this process, whilst the other quartz varieties are produced in different geological environments. Occasionally a single crystal may present both purple and yellow colour zoning, these are called ametrine and can show both dynamic separation of the two colours or a more subtle mixing within the gemstone.
Internal observations: Amethyst often shows straight banding and colour zoning with colour becoming more intense towards the termination. Typical inclusions are radiating golden cacoxenite needles, golden-red goethite needles, patches and zones of smoky quartz, citrine (ametrine) or colourless quartz, healed fractures showing feathered or zebra striped patterning.
Crystal care: Amethyst fades in direct sunlight, so keep off windowsills or any area that has sun shining too brightly.
MOH's Hardness 7
Whilst amethyst isn't a 'soft' stone it is still prone to scratching and surface dulling over time if not handled with care. Cluster formations are more delicate than single crystals.
General crystal care here
HEALING PROPERTIES
Calming, Meditation, Protection
Mind and body are a sacred temple connected by Amethyst.
Amethyst, helpful for those suffering insomnia & nightmares, encourages deep restful sleep. It is known to break patterns of addictive behaviour as well as clear negative thoughts to encourage calm unburdened rest. A welcoming crystal that can protect against all forms of negativity and keep your sacred space energised and safe. A powerful stone used for both Crown and Third Eye Chakras, to heighten spiritual connections and allow for deep, relaxing meditation.
Uses: For assistance with sleep keep your amethyst under your pillow or close to your bed.
Keep protected from negativity by placing near the entrance to your sacred space or release your own negative energy by keeping amethyst close to your heart.
For Meditation support place near the crown chakra, third eye or simply hold to focus.