Healing Properties of Amethyst

Amethyst is a quartz crystal with purple coloration which varies from light pinkish purple to deep violet. The color is caused by the presence of manganese and a combination of iron and aluminum found within the rock. It is commonly known that amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February. It is also recommended as a gift for 4th, 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries. Less commonly known is that the ancient Greeks used amethyst to ward off overintoxication, which is where the colorful quartz gets its name. The Greek word amethystos means, literally, “not drunken.”

Associated with the third eye and crown chakras, it is no surprise that amethyst’s healing properties include psycho-spiritual states as well as physical ailments. The stone is attributed with the healing of insomnia, hearing problems, headaches and chronic pain conditions. It can also enhance the functioning of the circulatory system, endocrine system, immune system and the reproductive system. Emotionally, it is said to provide a calm, peaceful and joyful state of mind and is useful for combatting phobias and addictions.

On the psychic level, amethyst is simultaneously a protective gem and an agent of opening communication, attributed with helping to enhance and strenghten psychic abilities including telepathy, clairaudience and clairvoyance. It is said to be good for meditation as it focuses energy positively, as many other stones and crystals are also good for meditation. It may be that the amethyst is particularly effective because of its calming effect.

In the Catholic religion, amethyst is called the Bishop’s stone because it symbolizes piety, wisdom, humility and sincerity. It is still worn ceremoniously by bishops. In other religions, the amethyst is frequently worn by healers.