On this specimen the points of purple amethyst crystals catch the light. The stone is mounted on a black metal stand and, with the stand, measures about 13 × 4.5 cm. It comes from India.
A name that means “not drunk”
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, coloured by traces of iron and the natural radiation of the earth's crust. Its name comes from the ancient Greek amethystos, meaning “not drunk”. The ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethyst, or drinking from an amethyst cup, kept a person sober. Later, Catholic bishops' rings were traditionally set with amethyst too.
Today crystal tradition calls it the stone of calm. If you see it that way too, it has a good place in the bedroom or a reading corner. Amethyst is the birthstone for February, so it is a thoughtful present for a February birthday.
Keep it out of strong sun
Strong, long-lasting sunlight can slowly fade the purple. So rather than a south-facing windowsill, give it a spot further into the room, on a bookshelf or in a glass cabinet. The stand lifts the crystals, so the points still sparkle under a lamp. A north-facing room or a spot behind cabinet glass suits it well.
One specimen with its own stand
Being natural, every specimen differs from the photo in shape, size and shade of purple. You receive one specimen with its stand. The stand holds the stone upright, so it needs no propping and the crystal side can face the viewer. Use a soft brush to sweep dust from between the points.