The Pisces Birthstone from the Bible: Amethyst

Astrology and the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

Astrology is the belief that the positions of celestial bodies influence human affairs. Central to astrology is the zodiac, which consists of twelve signs, each associated with specific personality traits.

Pisces is the twelfth sign of the zodiac. Represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions, Pisceans are compassionate, imaginative and sensitive individuals, who exhibit an innate ability to understand the emotions of others.

For every zodiac sign, there is a gemstone associated. While birthstones are popularly associated with the months of the year, the oldest of month stones also accompanied the signs of the zodiac. Thus, the birthstone for February, amethyst, is also the natal stone of Pisces.

Origin of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst in the Bible

The recognition of amethyst as the birthstone for Pisces originated from an interpretation of the Bible. The Book of Exodus mentions amethyst as one of the gemstones adorning the breastplate of Aaron, the high priest of the Israelites. Known as the ‘breastpiece of judgment,’ the breastplate was a sacred garment worn by Aaron when he entered the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness.

In the Book of Revelation, amethyst comes up in the description of the New Jerusalem, a heavenly city representing the culmination of God’s kingdom. Amethyst is the gemstone adorning the twelfth foundation of the New Jerusalem. Its place as the twelfth foundation stone led to the recognition of amethyst as the birthstone of the twelfth sign of the zodiac, Pisces.

Physical Characteristics of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Its physical properties contribute to amethyst’s beauty and suitability for several applications, including jewelry and ornamental carvings.

1. Transparency

Amethyst can be transparent to translucent, with higher quality specimens exhibiting greater transparency.

2. Color

Amethyst ranges in color from pale lilac to deep purple. The inclusion of iron in the crystal contributes to these colorations.

3. Hardness

On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, amethyst scores a 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for use in jewelry.

4. Luster

Amethyst has a vitreous luster, giving it a brilliant appearance when polished.

5. Streak

The streak of amethyst is white. Thus, when scraped across a rough surface, the stone leaves a white mark.

6. Crystal Structure

Found in various sizes, amethyst typically forms as six-sided prisms with a pyramidal termination, but can also occur as large geodes.

7. Cleavage

Amethyst has no distinct cleavage, meaning the stone does not break along distinct planes like some other minerals do. Instead, amethyst fractures conchoidally, producing curved surfaces.

8. Varieties

Amethyst comes in a range of shades and patterns, offering enthusiasts a wide array of options to appreciate its beauty with.

1. Deep Purple Amethyst

This is the most widely recognized variety of amethyst. Its deep, rich purple hue was the color originally associated with the stone, and remains the classic color that most people envision when they think of amethyst. The color ranges in shades from a reddish-purple to a bluish-purple, typically with uniform distribution throughout the crystal. Deep purple amethyst is popular for its intense hue, and commonly appears in jewelry and decorative pieces.

2. Lavender Amethyst

Also known as Rose de France amethyst, Lavender amethyst exhibits a delicate pastel purple reminiscent of lavender flowers. Unlike the deep purple color of traditional amethyst, lavender amethyst features a lighter, softer shade. This stone varies in appearance from transparent to translucent.

3. Banded Amethyst

Also referred to as Chevron amethyst, banded amethyst is a peculiar variety that exhibits alternating bands of purple amethyst and white quartz. These bands create distinctive patterns resembling chevrons or V-shapes, giving this stone its striking appearance.

Historical Use of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

Throughout history, amethyst held significance across cultures for its beauty, symbolism and perceived metaphysical properties.

1. Ancient Egypt

Amethyst was highly prized by the ancient Egyptians, who used the stone in jewelry, amulets and burial ornaments. The Egyptians may have believed amethyst to protect them from evil spirits.

2. Ancient Greece and Rome

The Greeks and Romans associated amethyst with Dionysus, the god of wine and intoxication. They believed that wearing amethyst or drinking from vessels made of the stone would prevent drunkenness and promote sobriety. Carved into amulets and cameos, amethyst adorned rings and other jewelry.

3. Medieval Europe

In medieval Europe, amethyst was a symbol of royalty, and also often figured in religious jewelry, particularly in Christian crosses and rosaries. Believed to possess protective properties, amethyst was used to ward off evil spirits.

4. Eastern Cultures

In Eastern cultures such as China and India, amethyst was valued for its association with healing and protection. The stone was part of traditional medicine.

5. Modern Usage

Today, amethyst continues to be used for jewelry, ornamental carvings and metaphysical purposes. The stone is believed to promote spiritual growth, calm the mind, and protect against negative energies. Amethyst geodes and clusters are also popular decorative pieces, and the use of amethyst in crystal healing and meditation remains widespread.

Metaphysical Properties of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

Across different cultures, a variety of symbolisms and metaphysical properties surround amethyst.

1. Spirituality

Amethyst is often regarded as a stone of spiritual growth and enlightenment. The gemstone enhances intuition, deepens meditation, and facilitates connection with higher realms of consciousness.

2. Clarity of Mind

Amethyst enhances mental clarity, focus and decision-making. This stone helps clear the mind of negative thoughts and emotions, thus allowing for greater mental balance and peace.

3. Protection

Amethyst has been in use as a protective stone against negative energies, psychic attacks and spiritual harm. The stone creates a shield of spiritual protection around the wearer.

4. Sobriety and Addiction Recovery

In ancient times, amethyst was associated with sobriety, and was believed to prevent drunkenness. Today, the stone is still used as a symbol of sobriety, and is recommended for individuals in addiction recovery programs as a reminder of their commitment to staying sober.

5. Emotional Healing

Amethyst has a soothing energy that can alleviate stress, anxiety and emotional turmoil. The stone promotes emotional balance, inner peace and self-awareness.

6. Physical Healing

In crystal healing practices, amethyst is used to alleviate physical ailments such as headaches, insomnia and immune system disorders. The stone is believed to have purifying and detoxifying effects on the body, thus promoting overall health and well-being.

Astrological Significance of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

The metaphysical properties of amethyst resonate with Pisces personalities, and provide them with support and guidance on their spiritual and emotional journey.

1. Spirituality

Pisceans have a deep, spiritual and intuitive nature. With the stone’s association with spiritual growth and enlightenment, amethyst complements Pisces’ innate ability to tap into the unseen realms, and supports them on their quest for deeper meaning in life.

2. Clarity of Mind

Pisces individuals can sometimes become overwhelmed by their emotions and imagination. Amethyst’s property of promoting focus and mental clarity can help Pisceans navigate their thoughts and emotions, thus providing them with a sense of clarity and direction.

3. Protection

Pisceans are empathetic and compassionate individuals who often absorb the energies of those around them. Amethyst’s protective properties can shield Pisceans from negative energies, psychic attacks and emotional overwhelm, thus helping them maintain their emotional boundaries and inner peace.

4. Sobriety and Addiction Recovery

Pisceans may fall prey to escapism and addictive tendencies, as individuals born under this sign can seek solace in unhealthy habits to cope with their sensitive nature. Amethyst’s symbolism of sobriety and its reputed ability to prevent drunkenness can support Pisceans in their journey towards healing and recovery from addiction.

5. Emotional Healing

Pisces individuals are deeply attuned to their emotions and the emotions of others. Amethyst’s calming energy can help Pisceans in alleviating stress, anxiety and emotional turmoil, thus fostering emotional balance, inner peace and self-awareness.

6. Physical Healing

Due to their heightened sensitivity and emotional depth, Pisceans may be prone to psychosomatic illnesses. Amethyst’s purifying and detoxifying effects on the mind and body can support Pisceans in maintaining their physical well-being and vitality.

Best Variety of Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

While all amethysts can be beneficial for individuals born under Pisces, a particular variety holds special significance for the zodiac sign. The transparent deep-purple stone is the amethyst that the ancients of biblical times knew. The purple amethyst would thus be the foundation stone of Revelation, and therefore the Pisces birthstone from the Bible.

This classic variety of amethyst resonates deeply with Pisces’ mystical and intuitive nature. The stone’s rich purple hue symbolizes spiritual wisdom and insight, which Pisceans may naturally value. Deep purple amethyst can help Pisceans deepen their connection to the spiritual realm. Its calming energy can also provide them with emotional support and clarity during times of uncertainty or confusion.

Care and Maintenance of Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

Caring for amethyst jewelry is relatively straightforward, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure its longevity and beauty. By following these  tips, you can keep your amethyst jewelry looking beautiful and vibrant for years to come.

1. Gentle Cleaning

Clean your amethyst jewelry regularly using warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone’s surface or remove its natural luster.

2. Avoid Heat and Sunlight

Store your amethyst jewelry away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as prolonged exposure to heat can cause the stone’s color to fade over time.

3. Avoid Chemicals

Avoid exposing your amethyst jewelry to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, perfumes and hairsprays. These chemicals may not only corrode the metal settings of the jewelry, but also dull the surface of the stone.

4. Protect from Scratches

In the Mohs scale, amethyst has a hardness of 7, which makes it relatively resistant to scratching. However, to prevent scratches and damage, it’s still a good idea to store your amethyst jewelry separately from other harder gemstones.

5. Regular Inspections

Periodically inspect your amethyst jewelry for any loose stones or damage to the settings. If you notice any issues, take your jewelry to a professional jeweler for repair.

The Beauty of the Pisces Birthstone Amethyst

The Pisces birthstone amethyst is popular for its spiritual symbolism and calming energy. The stone’s rich purple hues align with Pisces’ intuitive and empathetic nature. Signifying clarity of mind, emotional healing and spiritual growth, amethyst helps Pisceans enhance their intuition, find inner peace, and navigate their emotional depths.

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