Amethyst, the captivating purple variety of quartz, holds a distinguished yet complex place in the history of birthstones. While modern lists designate topaz and citrine as the primary birthstones for November, amethyst was the traditional gemstone associated with this month for over a millennium. Its rich color, steeped in legend and lore, has made it a favorite of royalty and spiritual seekers alike. This article explores the multifaceted story of amethyst, from its historical significance and geological origins to its enduring symbolism and practical care, drawing exclusively from authoritative gemological and historical sources.
A History of Shifting Traditions
The journey of amethyst as a November birthstone is a story of evolving traditions and historical translations. The concept of birthstones itself has ancient roots, originating from beliefs that specific gems held connections to the stars and could influence fortune. Early traditions linked gems to the twelve months of the year, though these associations were not always consistent. The earliest known list, derived from a translation of the Old Testament, presented a different arrangement of stones than what is commonly recognized today.
For a considerable period, amethyst held the position of November’s birthstone. From roughly the 6th century onward, amethyst consistently appeared on birthstone lists in the Western world. However, the transition to topaz is somewhat shrouded in mystery. Scholars speculate that the change may have been the result of an error in copying or translation, or perhaps an intentional edit. Regardless, by the late 6th century, topaz had supplanted amethyst as the designated November gem. Notably, topaz maintained its position through the standardization of birthstones in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers.
Despite this official shift, amethyst’s legacy is far from forgotten. It remains a special apostle and guardian angel birthstone for November, and is also considered the high priest November birthstone in some traditions. Furthermore, in Hindu tradition, Cat’s Eye is listed as the birth rock for November, and garnet and emerald are designated as celestial birth gems for Scorpio and Sagittarius, which cover parts of the month. This multiplicity of options reflects the diverse historical and cultural influences that have shaped birthstone lists over centuries.
The Legend and Lore of Amethyst
The name and lore of amethyst are deeply intertwined. The stone’s name is derived from the Greek word amethystos, which translates to "not intoxicated." This etymology is rooted in a famous Greek myth. As the legend goes, Bacchus, the god of wine, was pursuing a maiden named Amethyste. To save her from his advances, the goddess Diana turned her into a pure white stone. In his remorse, Bacchus poured wine over the stone as an offering, staining it a deep purple. Because of this story, the ancients believed that amethyst could protect the wearer from intoxication and ward off the effects of overindulgence.
Beyond its association with sobriety, amethyst has been attributed with various mystical powers. It was believed to calm hot-tempered individuals and soothe negative emotions. The stone has been a symbol of faith, constancy, and cheerfulness throughout history. Ancient legends also attributed protective qualities to amethyst, with lions often engraved on garnets (another gem sometimes associated with November) to guard the wearer from dangers during travel and to preserve health and honor. The use of amethyst in psychoanalytic sessions further underscores its historical connection to mental and emotional balance.
Geological Formation and Mining Sources
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, a mineral with a chemical composition of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). Its distinctive purple color is caused by trace amounts of iron and natural irradiation during its formation. While amethyst can be found in geodes and crystalline formations worldwide, the vast majority of citrine in today's marketplace results from the heat treatment of amethyst. This process transforms the purple hue into shades of yellow to brownish orange.
Natural amethyst is mined in several key locations. Brazil is a primary source for the amethyst that is often heat-treated to produce citrine. However, the most celebrated source for natural, unheated citrine—and a site that also produces stunning amethyst—is Bolivia’s Anahí mine. Located deep in the world’s largest freshwater wetland, the mine has a storied history. It was discovered by a Spanish conquistador in the 1600s and given to him as a dowry when he married Anahí, a princess from the Ayoreos tribe of Paraguay. The mine was lost for three centuries before being rediscovered in the 1960s. The Anahí mine produces a unique combination of amethyst and citrine in the same crystal; when these two colors appear together in a fashioned gem, it is known as ametrine. The citrine from this mine typically ranges from orange-yellow to brownish/greenish yellow.
Other significant sources for citrine, which is closely related to amethyst, include Bolivia, Spain, Madagascar, Mexico, and Uruguay.
Gemological Properties of Amethyst
Amethyst shares the fundamental properties of quartz, making it a durable and attractive gemstone for jewelry. Understanding its physical characteristics is essential for both enthusiasts and collectors.
Key Gemological Properties of Amethyst:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Quartz (Silica) |
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7 |
| Toughness | Good |
| Refractive Index | 1.544 - 1.553 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.65 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Typical Colors | Light to deep purple, lilac, mauve |
Note: This table is compiled based on the standard properties of quartz (amethyst) as referenced in the provided sources.
Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively resistant to scratching and is durable enough for normal daily wear. Its good toughness further enhances its suitability for jewelry. However, like many gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Amethyst’s symbolism is as rich as its color. Historically, it has been a stone of spirituality, sobriety, and peace. The association with the Greek myth of Bacchus cemented its reputation as a protector against overindulgence. In the Middle Ages, it was considered a symbol of royalty and was favored by the clergy and nobility. Its purple hue, a color long associated with power and luxury, made it a gem fit for kings and bishops.
In modern metaphysical circles, amethyst is often called the "stone of spirituality and contentment." It is believed to promote tranquility, relieve stress, and enhance spiritual awareness. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the stone's enduring popularity and cultural significance. The fact that amethyst is still recognized as a special apostle and guardian angel birthstone for November speaks to its lasting spiritual resonance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper maintenance is crucial for preserving the beauty and integrity of amethyst jewelry. Given its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is generally durable. However, it can be susceptible to fading if exposed to strong sunlight or high heat for prolonged periods. Prolonged exposure to light may cause the purple color to lighten.
For cleaning, amethyst can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone or its setting. After cleaning, it should be thoroughly dried with a soft, lint-free cloth. When not in use, amethyst jewelry should be stored separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Conclusion
Amethyst’s story is one of enduring allure and historical complexity. While it may no longer hold the official title of November’s primary birthstone, its legacy is deeply embedded in the tradition of birthstones. From its ancient Greek origins and legendary connection to sobriety to its royal purple hue that has captivated civilizations for millennia, amethyst remains a gemstone of profound beauty and significance. Its reliable durability and the fascinating science behind its color—from the trace elements that create its purple shades to the heat treatment that transforms it into citrine—continue to fascinate gemologists and enthusiasts alike. For those born in November, amethyst offers a direct link to a rich tapestry of history, lore, and geological wonder, making it a truly timeless and meaningful choice.