Amethyst the healing power and potential of crystals

Amethyst is the most popular variety of quartz crystals that is considered the most powerful and protective stone. It is a semiprecious violet stone that is often used along side precious metals in jewellery. It has been sought after throughout the ages for its stunning colours and ability to stimulate the mind and emotions. Amethyst can help with physical ailments, emotional issues and in energy healing and Chakra balancing combine it with the healing and restorative powers of silver which will enhance and amplify the properties of the gemstone. It has long been believed that Amethyst has the power to alleviate stress and headaches and improve blood circulation for better health. Anyone suffering from insomnia, would once have be prescribed Amethyst crystals and gemstones to keep close to their beds as they tried to sleep. Aside from its physical healing properties, Amethyst is widely believed to be of great use to those who practise meditation. Its very presence is believed to heal the mind in many cultures around the world, so it has enjoyed incredible popularity with such a broad range of people over the years. It's believed that as long as the stone itself is present, the people around it will benefit from its protective and restorative qualities.

Amethyst is a Silicon Dioxide with traces of Iron. In other words and rather prosaically amethyst is a purple quartz. Amethyst belongs to the Quartz Group of Minerals. Amethyst was used in jewellery in Ancient Egypt but it is believed that the Greek phrase "a-methystos", meaning not drunk was given to this crystal, because the colour of the wine at the time was purple.

​Amethyst occurs in as many colours of purple that you can imagine, from a very pale lilac to a deep dark purple with red lights within. Amethyst is generally abundant. When exposed to sunlight for extended periods amethyst may fade in colour.

There are many ways to cleanse your amethyst but my favourite ways are to place on a windowsill for a while and allow the sun and moonlight to do the recharging. As amethyst is a quartz you can use running water to to cleanse your crystals, I am lucky enough to have my own personal spring where I immerse my crystals for about a minute and then dry with a clean cloth.