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Amethyst:
Tectosilicates (Silicon dioxide) SiO2 AKA: Quartz |
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System: Hexagonal; usually with prismatic crystals striated crosswise and frequently terminated by double rhombohedrons (like hexagonal pyramids); also granular, disseminated, massive. Appearance: Violet to red-purple; vitreous, greasy luster; streak white. Physical Properties: Hardness:(7.0); Specific gravity: (2.65); Cleavage: generally none; fracture, conchoidal; transparent to subtranslucent. Similar species: White and colorless beryl has one poor cleavage, is harder than quartz, and lacks the crosswise striations. Feldspar is softer and has perfect cleavage. Occurrence: Quartz is an important rock-forming mineral and developed in many different environments. It is found in plutonic rocks and granite pegmatites. It is present in volcanic rocks and sandstone. It is the principle constituent of hypothermal, mesothermal and epithermal veins. The most beautiful amethysts are from Brazil. They are up to 30 cm (12 in) long and are found in geodes of volcanic rocks. Also found in Uruguay, Sri Lanka, Canada, the Urals (former USSR), Zambia and Czechoslovakia. Miscellaneous: Amethyst's violet color is caused by trace amounts of ferric iron. One cubic foot of quartz can be turned into amethyst by as much iron as is contained in the head of a pin. It turns white when heated to 300°C (572°F), then yellow (citrine) at 500°C (932°F), but becomes violet again if exposed to x-rays or bombarded with gamma particles. Amethyst can loose its color by being exposed to direct sunlight, turning a pale brown color. Amethyst is the birthstone of February. Conventional Wisdom: The word means "not drunken" because the purple stones were credited with the ability to keep drinkers sober no matter how much wine they consumed. A late myth described Amethyst as a nymph who loves the wine god. When he scorned her, Amethyst withered and hardened into a stone that would always oppose the effects of wine. The idea of amethystine sobriety in ancient times had a simple basis in the serving of wine in cups of carved amethyst. The purple stone naturally enhanced the color of the wine, making it possible for servants to water it down or even to serve plain water to masters who were already too drink to know the difference. Medieval bishops used amethyst cups for similar reasons either to be more parsimonious in serving wine to guest, or else to remain sober while seeming to drink freely. Therefore, the name "bishop's stone" was often applied to amethyst. Wear when sleeping or when awake to reduce anger, impatience, and nightmares. Keep in pet's water to reduce fleas. The amethyst is known as a spiritual stone and is used for general healing and for meditation. It is said that sleeping with a piece of amethyst beneath one's pillow promotes intuitive dreams and inspired thought. Many healers also consider it useful in the relief of insomnia and to bring serenity in times of grief. Also protects against blood disease, toxic effects of substance use, acne, neuralgia and fits. Soothes and calms the mind, raises the spirit, rebalances and increases intuitive awareness, protects from negative vibrations. It is a very good idea to have an amethyst cluster in your room because of the cleansing and energizing properties associated with it. Belongs to the Astrological Signs of Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn. |