Amethyst Facts: Do You Know These?

Amethyst is probably one of the most popular crystals on the planet, and even if you don’t believe in its metaphysical properties, many simply love the purple beauty it offers.

In today’s guide, let’s talk about fun amethyst facts.  Some you may already know, whereas one you may never known.

What are interesting facts about amethyst?

Colors are formed by iron impurities

The purple colors you see in an amethyst can greatly differ, from pale violet to a deep purple, and it’s attributed to the iron impurities within its crystal structure.  When amethyst is exposed to natural radiation, the iron absorbs the energy and then becomes oxidized, which gives the amethyst its purple hue.  The more intense the heat is, the more enhanced the color can be.  Today, the color of the amethyst will greatly vary on where it has been mined.

It’s the official birthstone for February

Traditionally, it’s the official birthstone of February.  This dates back to when St. Valentine wore an amethyst ring with Cupid’s face carved into the stone.

It’s also a stone associated with the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries

While it’s not “official,” amethyst is associated with 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries.

It’s also the official gemstone of South Carolina

Yes, amethyst is the state gemstone of South Carolina.  It’s also the official gemstone of the Canadian province of Ontario.

Amethyst is a quartz

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, which is the second most abundant material found on Earth.  Quartz makes up 12 percent of our land surface and 20 percent of the Earth’s crust.  Most quartz is used for build materials as well as glass, however, amethyst is geared more toward jewelry and decorative purposes.

You can find amethyst everywhere

Many crystals are only found in certain parts of the world, however, this isn’t the case with amethyst.  You can find it widespread, from North America to Africa.  Due to the wide availability, it isn’t as expensive as most crystals on the market.

The largest mine is found in Canada

While most people associate amethyst with Brazil, the largest mine is actually located in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

➡️ Looking for AMETHYST? Check out my Etsy or Shop

Amethyst can become citrine

As noted, when amethyst is heated, it can change colors, sometimes so much that it will change colors completely.  When exposed to higher levels of heat, amethyst will turn into a dark yellow or orange color.  In this case, it will then be referred to as citrine, as this is the color of the quartz.  This process can occur naturally, however, it can be altered by humans as well when it’s heated at high temperatures. In this case, many refer to it as “heat treated amethyst,” but you can still call it citrine.  The only difference here is that it’s not natural.

Greeks used amethyst as protection from getting drunk

Many moons ago, ancient Greeks wore amethyst pendants thinking that doing so would prevent you from getting drunk.  This crystal is related to drinking, as the name is derived from the word, “methustos,” which means drunk, and “a-,” which means not.  Combine the two (amethystos) and it means “not drunk.

It had other nicknames as well

Amethyst was also known as the “gem of fire” because people thought it contained fire-like energy.  Egyptians wore it during marriage ceremonies and was referred to as Hemage.  Hebrews referred to it as “Ahlamah,” a name which is taken from the Hebrew word, “halam.”

It’s known as a stone of peace

Metaphysically, amethyst is known as a stone of peace, as many believe it’s connected to bringing you peace.  It’s said to be a helpful stone with meditation as well as visualizing your goals.

Value wise, it’s more on the quality than size

Most people treasure a darker amethyst color than weight.  While most gemstones are valued based on weight, this often isn’t the case, mainly because it’s so plentiful.

It used to be highly valuable

In the 19th century, amethyst was treated like a gemstone, similar to that of a ruby and emerald, however, when larger deposits were found, mainly in Brazil, the value and rarity drastically dropped.

Soldiers wore it for “protection”

Historically, it was said that medieval soldiers wore this very crystal to help protect, as well as help them focus, during battle.

Can sleeping with one help you?

Some believe that if you sleep with an amethyst beneath your pillow, it may help with insomnia and promote your peaceful dreams.

Did amethyst help with fidelity?

Ancient Roman women believed that if you wore amethyst, it would keep you faithful, and it was the reason they would encourage their husbands to wear it.  Women would also wear the stone to their weddings.

A foundation stone

In the Book of Revelations, amethyst was noted as one of the foundation stones of New Jerusalem.

The biggest amethyst is located in Uruguay

The biggest cathedral in the world is referred to as the Empress of Uruguay. It weighs more than 5,000 pounds and stands eight feet tall.