Amethyst, the purple colored variety of Quartz crystal, forms as translucent to opaque crystals of all shades from deepest violet to pale lilac and white. It is usually classified as a Lunar crystal because of its power to influence the subconscious mind, dreams and the astral planes.

Amethyst is most renowned for keeping its wearer free from drunkenness and excess. Astrologically it is ruled by Jupiter, and is also connected with Bacchus and Dionysus, deities famed for their drunken revels. Amethyst crystals can be used magically to keep you clear headed, focused and free from any unwelcome influences.

In crystal healing Amethyst is often used to relieve stress and heal stress-related illness. It is considered to be especially good for headaches, muscle tension and back or neck ache.

A stone of sleep and dreams, Amethyst is a good crystal to use for any type of dreaming magic. As well as stimulating the subconscious dreaming mind and opening doors to the astralplanes, Amethyst is also believed to help with conscious recall of dreams and symbolic messages. Keep a piece under your pillow and be sure to record any dreams you remember when you wake up. It is also a good stone to meditate with, and makes a wonderful focus to gaze into and concentrate on when you are learning this skill. The crystal is said to balance logical reasoning, imagination and intuition to create a much deeper overall view of any situation.

For many centuries Amethyst has been the sacred stone of the priesthood. It was worn by ancient priests and priestesses as a personal magical stone and focus of power. In a modern continuation of this tradition the Pope wears an Amethyst ring, which absorbs so much of his personal energy that it must be buried with him or destroyed when he dies. Amethyst can be worn by anyone who has spiritual or magical responsibility for others, and when used correctly, for pure, spiritual purposes (rather than to gain worldly power) it is said to increases wisdom and spiritual power and help a person make contact with their higher guides and inspirational sources of creativity. Amethyst often 'speaks' through signs and symbols that communicate directly with the subconscious mind, so look out for unexpected insights, flashes of inspiration and unusual coincidences when you are working with this stone; they may contain important messages from your highest spiritual source.