INSIDE: By learning about Amethyst symbolism, the history of Amethyst, and all of the folklore, legends, and mythology that surrounds it, you’ll come to realize why it is such a precious and beloved gemstone.
The Gem of Fire… A Stone of Royalty… The Bishop’s Stone… a Dream Stone.
These are just a few of the names bestowed upon the Amethyst crystal.
But why?
Discovering the legends, mythology, and folklore that stems from the history of Amethyst brings a whole new understanding to this beautiful stone.
Amethyst Symbolism in Regards to Healing Properties
Before we dig into all of the Amethyst legends, lore, and mythology, let’s first answer the question, what does Amethyst symbolize in terms of healing powers?
Here are the main healing powers that Amethyst is known for…
- Spiritual insight and intuition
- Relaxation, peace, calm, and tranquility
- Protection
- Purification
- Love
But where did all of this come from?
Let’s look back to the history of Amethyst to understand the Amethyst symbolism behind it all.
The History of Amethyst
There is proof of Amethyst being used as far back as 25,000 B.C. and it has always been a prominent stone throughout our history all over the world.
Until large amounts of Amethyst was found, it was a considered precious stone that was equal in value to the diamond. It has since been downgraded to a semi-precious stone since it is more readily available.
A Gem of Fire
In ancient times, Amethyst was known as a “Gem of Fire,” because it was thought to hold the energy of fire, which is passionate, creative, and spiritual in nature.
A Stone of Royalty
As a stone of royalty, it was used in crowns, scepters, and jewelry by the royal house because it helped leaders with decision-making and gave clergymen the power of restraint so that they could uphold their vows of celibacy.
The Ancient Egyptians & Amethyst Symbolism
In Ancient Egypt, Amethyst was known as “Hemag.” It was carved into hearts and worn as amulets during burial ceremonies.
It was also worn as amulets of protection by Egyptian travelers to keep them safe from being taken advantage of or attacked while away from home.
The Egyptians used it for healing fears and guilt as well.
Symbolism of Amethyst & the Hebrews
The Hebrews called Amethyst “Ahlamah,” which was derived from the Hebrew word, “halam,” which means “to dream.”
To this day, it is known as a Dream Stone that can help deter nightmares while assisting us in having more positive, vivid dreams.
Catholic Amethyst Symbolism
In the Catholic religion, Amethyst was used in prayer beads and rosaries.
It was known as the Bishop’s Stone because it symbolized ecclesiastical dignity. Today, Bishops still wear it on the second finger of their right hand.
Eastern Cultures & Amethyst
In the Eastern world, Amethyst was used in the tree of life, in the gem cities, and in temples of worship. It was also used in offerings and for spiritual practices and meditation.
Other Symbolism Examples Related to Amethyst Throughout History
- Amethyst was also known as a “Stone of Sobriety,” helping to reduce indulgence in any form.
- It was thought to control evil thoughts.
- It was said to improve intelligence and business sense.
- It protected travelers from surprise attacks.
- It protected the body from disease and infection.
- It protected soldiers and helped them win wars.
- It protected against black magic and witchcraft.
- It was a necessary stone for astrology, helping to align planetary influences.
- It was placed under pillows to improve sleep and reduce nightmares.
- It was placed on the temples and forehead to reduce throbbing headaches.
- It was used as amulets and beads.
Click here to learn about the history of other crystals.
Amethyst Legends, Lore & Mythology
Amethyst is a stone that is rich in mythology, legends, and folklore. Let’s look at some of the most intriguing ones now…
The Mythology of Bacchus (or Dionysus)
The name, “Amethyst,” comes from the Greek word, “ametusthos,” which means “not intoxicated.”
And the legend of Bacchus, the Roman wine god (otherwise known as Dionysus) explains this…
The story goes that a young maiden named Amethyst was on her way to worship at the Temple of Diana (otherwise known as Artemis) when she happened upon the god of wine.
He had vowed to take revenge on the next person he saw to rid himself of anger over an insult by a puny human.
As he sent his guardian tigers to devour her, the goddess, Diana spared her by turning her into a clear stone.
This caused Bacchus to feel remorse and he poured his wine over the stone to atone for his actions, which turned the stone a deep violet color.
This legend was created during the time of the Renaissance in 1576 by Remy Belleau, a French poet as part of a poem about gemstone beliefs.
However, it is not the reason for the belief that Amethyst prevents drunkenness and overindulgence. That goes back to the time of Ancient Greece.
In Ancient Greece and Rome, they would drink from…
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