February Stone – Amethyst
By Bonnie McMillan of New Age Concepts

Amethyst is the recognized birthstone and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the sixth year of marriage.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz and comes in pale lilac to rich deep purple shades. The presence of manganese in clear quartz produces Amethyst, while additional amounts of iron content vary the purple coloration. The deepest Amethyst color comes from Uruguay, Siberia, Africa and Colorado. The most common medium color is found in Brazil.

Amethyst is a stone of spirituality and contentment. It balances the energies of the intellectual, emotional and physical bodies and provides a clear connection between the Earth plane and the other worlds. It clears the aura. Amethyst bestows stability, strength, invigoration and peace. It is also a stone for meditation. It opens and activates the crown chakra.

Amethyst has been used to encourage and support sobriety. It is an excellent stone for one who is attempting to find freedom from addictive personalities. Set a piece of Amethyst next to your bed, it helps with insomnia.