February’s Stone:
February’s birthstone is the amethyst. Amethysts contain the second most abundant mineral found in Earth’s crust – quartz. Quartz is often found lining the insides of geodes. So it’s no wonder that geodes sometimes contain amethysts, too. Like quartz, amethysts are a transparent form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). An amethyst’s color can range from a faint mauve to a rich purple. It’s not clear why they’re purple. Some scientists believe the purple color arises from the amethysts’ iron oxide content, while others attribute the color to manganese or hydrocarbons.
Amethysts are very sensitive to heat. When heated to 400 or 500 degrees Celsius, an amethyst’s color changes to a brownish-yellow or red. Under some circumstances, the stones can turn green when heated. Heat may even transform an amethyst into a naturally-rare mineral called citrine. And even without heating, the violet color of an amethyst may fade over time.
Amethyst History
The amethyst has a rich history of lore and legend. It can be traced back as far as 25,000 years ago in France, where it was used as a decorative stone by prehistoric humans. It has also been found among the remains of Neolithic man.
It’s said that the signet ring worn by Cleopatra was an amethyst, engraved with the figure of Mithras, a Persian deity symbolizing the Divine Idea, Source of Light and Life. It is also said to be the stone of Saint Valentine, who wore an amethyst engraved with the figure of his assistant, Cupid. Saint Valentine’s Day is still observed in February.
The early Egyptians believed that the amethyst possessed good powers, and placed the stones in the tombs of pharaohs. During the Middle Ages, it was used as medication, believed to dispel sleep, sharpen intellect, and protect the wearer from sorcery. It was also believed to bring victory in battle. In Arabian mythology, the amethyst was supposed to protect the wearer from bad dreams and gout.
Metaphysically Speaking
Amethyst is known as the “Stone of Spirit,” mirroring the color of the crown chakra – our doorway to the Divine. Amethyst is used in Mala beads as a meditation tool in Tibet and is said to calm, protect, and cleanse the spirit. Its color strengthens the muscles of the eyes and when one Gazes into an amethyst sphere, it is said that it will exercise the eye muscles. ( I did not know this! )
Amethyst is also the stone of transformation, healing and cleansing. It has been known for its ability to help release addictions
It’s violet color raises your vibration turning your thoughts to service and what you can do for others.
Wearing Amethyst brings peace and calmness to one’s soul and is especially effective when made by someone that is a healer of some kind.
Some ways to use and tap into the power of Amethyst this month:
1. Place in the corners of your home and office to protect your energy and space from negativity.
2. Add to a crystal grid when you’re ready for change or if you need help to smoothly move through change.
3. Pop a piece under your pillow to cleanse your energy overnight, stimulate intuition, and encourage healing abilities.
4. Improve your eyesight by gently gazing into an Amethyst orb.
5. Make a healing gem elixir. Leave in a glass of water and sip on it thoughout the day. ( NOTE: if your stone is NOT tumble, I suggest that you place your stone in a clear glass, no water and then place the glass w dry stone in a pitcher of water- this is called the indirect method )
If your stone is tumbled, clean it w boiling water and place directly in water.
6. Wear Amethyst jewelry to take advantage of it’s healing, spiritual and cleansing powers.
7. Place any jewelry onto an Amethyst cluster for cleansing, charging and energizing.
Love Kathy
Balance for Life: Mind, Body & Soul Healing