AMETHYST - February's Birthstone
Granate 27 by Mariana MenaThat's right, January flew by and February arrives bringing us this wonderful quartz, which is theAMETHYST .

The most popular legend dates back to Greek mythology and explains the origin of this semiprecious stone. Keep reading to learn about this version:
Dionysus, the god of wine, was in love with a beautiful maiden named Amethystos , who rejected him because she wished to remain chaste and pure. For this reason, he decided to ask for help from Artemis, goddess of animals, the hunt, and virginity. She heard his prayers and found a way to help the maiden by transforming her into a radiant rock of white quartz. Dionysus, humiliated and angry, poured a cup of wine over the rock, staining its crystals purple and turning it into what we know today as amethyst. We lost Amethystos , but AMETHYST was born.

Since then, the meaning of the young maiden's name, Amethystos , has been associated with abstinence and sobriety, so this gem was considered a powerful antidote against drunkenness, which is why, during Ancient Greece, wine cups carved from amethyst stones began to be made (can you imagine how beautiful they could be?), thinking that they would be immune to the effects of this drink.
The meaning of the gem evolved throughout history, so that in the Middle Ages, Christianity adopted it as a symbol of renunciation of earthly goods, wearing it in rings or bracelets, a custom that has continued to this day.
Its color has always been considered a royal color, which is why amethyst gems have always been featured in Egyptian and British crown jewels.

However, the meaning and properties attributed to Amethyst today are quite broad, encompassing various aspects that I will detail. Besides being a very elegant and exclusive stone due to its color, it has been attributed with spiritual and energetic properties that we might not have imagined:
Properties of Amethyst
Mystical properties: It is considered an amulet capable of cleansing the aura. Responsible for regulating the crown chakra (#7), it helps open the mind, break down mental barriers, and acquire knowledge. Amethyst helps regenerate and purify levels of consciousness. Furthermore, it fosters inspiration and intuition, enhances meditation skills, and neutralizes negativity.

It can help nervous people by bringing them moments of calm and relaxation, providing serenity and tranquility. If you are a very nervous person, having an amethyst quartz nearby will always be very helpful.
Healing properties: It combats physical and mental stress, balancing body, mind, and emotions. If you suffer from depression, using an amethyst stone will help you balance the emotional burden and overcome the problem.
Sleep: Promotes restful sleep. Having an amethyst nearby will make you feel relaxed, as this stone emits calming waves, making it easier to fall asleep.
Known as the insomnia star, amethyst quartz helps you sleep for the following reasons:

- Neutralizes nightmares
- It helps regulate the amount of time you sleep
- By helping with stress levels, it regulates your sleep cycles
- It absorbs energy from the electronic devices around us.
If you suffer from insomnia or a mild sleep disorder, place an amethyst under your pillow for added benefit.
How to cleanse and/or charge your Amethyst ?
This stone does not absorb as many bad energies as other stones, but it is important to cleanse it regularly.

Cleanse with the energy of the moon:
- Place sea salt in a container with the stone until it is completely covered.
- Leave it near a window where it will receive moonlight.
- Take it out with clean hands and wash it with cold water, removing any remaining salt.
Cleanse with the energy of the sun: After placing your quartz in the energy of the moon.
- Place water and sea salt in a glass and submerge your stone in sunlight (not direct sunlight) for at least 6 hours.
Personal mission while you sleep:
- Place your Amethyst between your hands after cleansing it
- With much love and faith, state the purpose for which you need it.
- Keep it under your pillow and let it work its magic.
Done! Remember that you can do the simplified cleaning process with just water and sea salt, leaving it in the moonlight and sunlight, that is, for 24 hours.

If, on the other hand, you simply want to keep your Amethyst jewelry in perfect condition, rubbing it with a soft cloth will suffice. However, remember that Granate 27 offers a cleaning and repair service for your Granate 27 jewelry. Contact us here for details.
Happy February!
Thank you for reading,
Mariana | Garnet 27