Unique amongst all locations is Thunder Bay Amethyst in its holistic uses.
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a Silica Dioxide of the Class of Silicates, in the Group of Quartz, in the Hexagonal Crystal System. Locally it can be found in the Crystal Habits of massive, granular, single-terminated, double-terminated, or clusters. “Roses” or “Cactus” formations can often be found in Thunder Bay Amethyst.
Its Dana mineral classification number 75.1.3.1 first identifies quartz as a tectosilicate or framework silicate (75). The subclassification (1) defines it by the chemical formula SiO2 and by its four-oxygen coordination in which four oxygen ions are bound to each silicon ion. Quartz is then assigned to the quartz group (3) as the first (1) and only member. Its hardness is 7.
Where did the name Amethyst come from?
Amethyst is of the Quartz Group. The word “quartz”, pronounced KWORTZ, stems from the German Quarz, which comes from the Slavic word kwardy, meaning “hard”. In European mineralogical literature, quartz appears as Quarz, kwartz, and cuarzo. Described as early as 315 BC (by heophrastus) Amethyst stems from the Greek amethystos, literally meaning “remedy against drunkenness” and alluding to the ancient belief that amethyst prevented inebriation.
How does Amethyst get its colour?
As an allochromatic (other-coloured) mineral, the colours of quartz are caused by traces of non-essential, colour-producing elements called chromophores. The purple-to-lilac colour of the amethyst variety is due to traces of iron and sometimes of manganese that disrupt the crystal lattice to create “colour centers” that alter light absorption.
Thunder Bay Amethyst ranges in colour from pale lavender, through deep indigo, through to black amethyst. It is often found coated in red (hematite). Rich in iron, Thunder Bay Amethyst clusters can be run through the auric field to vacuum it from head to toe.
Historical Uses of Amethyst
Historically its use is varied. Amethyst was one of the 12 stones in the jeweled breastplate of Aaron, the first high priest of the Hebrews. Medieval physicians believed that amethyst helped to remove toxins from the body, ease arthritic pain, and alleviate disorders of the digestive and circulatory system.
Because Amethyst symbolized piety and was thought to encourage celibacy, it was worn by Catholic clergymen during the Middle Ages. Amethyst is also found in the British crown jewels, which include gemstones of far greater rarity and monetary value.
Amethyst is the birthstone for February, the symbolic gift for the 17th wedding anniversary, and the official gemstone of both North Carolina and Ontario.
Using Amethyst in Crystal Healing Work
In crystal healing work, Amethyst is known as a stone of protection, purification, Divine connection, and release of addictions. Additionally, it is a cardinal Wind element stone. The Wind element stimulates the mind, the intuitive and psychic abilities, and ones connection to the spiritual realms. Place this stone on one’s third eye in meditation as you expand your personal intuitive gifts.
Working with single-terminated Amethyst points, one can sew holes and tares in the energetic field. Working with double-terminated pieces, one can expand energy in both directions.
When doing healing work on yourself, Thunder Bay Amethyst can be laid in a chakra spread directly on the body or underneath it. Working with Amethyst in this way helps one to understand the root cause of one’s disease or imbalance. Its ability to lend clarity assists one in identifying the damaging beliefs, behaviours and habits that brought an energetic imbalance into the physical realm. It helps one take responsivity for one’s reality by reminding one of our co-creative relationship with the Universe.
Melody refers to Amethyst as a “stone of spirituality and contentment”. It facilitates transmutation of lower energies into the higher frequencies of both the spiritual and ethereal levels. It is representative of the principles of complete metamorphosis.
Affirmation: I am purified, uplifted, and protected through my connection with the Divine.