There is no doubt about it, mother nature creates some of the most beautiful things. A simple walk in the woods can open our eyes to some of the loveliest sights and sounds. But beneath us are a whole host of magnificent gems, minerals and crystals that have been formed over millions of years.
Crystals and minerals have a very mythical reputation which in many ways can give anyone who likes them seem a bit spiritual. Different gems are supposed to have varying benefits and many believers carry small ones around with them for their apparent healing properties. With Amethysts there are various ancient claims about it being a healing stone, helping to relax the owner or prevent intoxication. Apparently the Greeks would carve goblets out of it to prevent the ill effects of alcohol!
Amethysts are a form of quartz and can range from the deepest blue/purple to a more pinky hue. The darker the colour the more sought after or valuable they are. The amethysts pictured are geodes where the crystals form in crevices of rocks. Larger taller ones are known as cathedrals. Brazil has one of the largest sources of amethyst but they are also found in South Korea, Austria, Russia and Canada.
Royal Ontario Museum
On a trip to Toronto we visited the Royal Ontario Museum which has the most magnificent collection of crystals and gemstones and houses one of the largest amethyst geode or cathedrals I have ever seen. If you are in the area it is worth a visit for this exhibition alone but the rest of the museum has a lot to offer.
I can’t deny that there isn’t something quite mystical and fascinating about them but I am not convinced about the spiritual healing properties. I think they are just beautiful, and when the light catches them they twinkle nicely. I have to admit, I am a sucker for sparkly things and these fit the bill nicely.
If you are interested in buying some gemstones, there are various online sellers but I would recommend going to a rock and gemstone show where you can see them in the flesh. Lots of exhibitors will have gemstones for sale from a couple of pounds to hundreds and their knowledge is worth tapping into. Take cash and your best negotiating skills and you could walk away with something really lovely.
Link to Rock ‘n’ gem shows HERE