Amethyst is quartz gemstone with a history dating back thousands of years. Those that view it as merely being the birthstone for the month of February are unaware of the true amethyst meaning, as well as the mystery behind the sought after stone.
In order to understand amethyst and what the various things that it symbolizes, you must first understand its rich, extensive history, which dates all the way back to ancient Egyptians.
Ancient Egyptians- Amethyst Meaning
The Egyptians used amethyst for intaglio engraved gems, whereby figures were carved into the stone’s surface. It wasn’t until the Greek discovered amethyst that the first amethyst meaning was realized, as they believed that it could prevent intoxication. In fact the name “amethyst” comes from the Greek term “amesthystos” which means “not drunken”.
Goblets were even made of amethyst in that era, to prevent those who imbibed alcoholic beverages from becoming drunk. One of the Greek myths went so far as to say that Dionysus, the god of wine and intoxication, pursued a girl named Amyesthystos, who refused his advances, and was instead turned into a white stone by Artemis, who had pity on her plight.
Medieval Europe- Amethyst Meaning
Another amethyst meaning evolved out of medieval European soldiers’ belief that amethyst kept people mentally balanced and could even heal the wounded. Therefore, they wore it in battle, as an added measure for protection. Amethyst beads were discovered in the graves of Anglo-Saxons in England, further proving that amethyst has been used for centuries for its symbolic value.
Today’s Meaning of Amethyst
Today, the amethyst meaning is one of spiritual contentment, peace of mind, and sincerity. It is often believed to have the power to connect the body, mind and spirit to other planes. It also fends off negative energy, so it is used, once again, as a stone of protection. Wearing amethyst in a piece of jewelry is said to diminish stress, help you to overcome certain addictions (especially alcoholism), and to heal your spirit with it eliminates selfishness.
There are also a number of ways in which amethyst is believed to help your physical well being. It can potentially calm your nervous system, help with digestion, cure headaches, improve your posture, alleviate arthritis, and help to improve the health of your skin and teeth, amongst other things.
In addition, amethyst is used to treat heart conditions and to reduce the symptoms of a variety of mental illnesses. The amethyst meaning is overall, through the ages, one of protection. It is known as the spiritual stone and, if worn in amethyst jewelry, can improve one’s physical and psychological state.
