I chose to discuss a new object for this week’s discussion. My Amethyst crystal necklace has become a staple of my wardrobe over the past year and a half.
I purchased it two summers ago at “Hippies, Witches, and Gypsies”, a self-described “eclectic” shop in Troy, New York.
I am the first owner of this Ameythst pendant, but the chain it hangs on belonged to my mom; it was once used to hang her favorite cross. When I wear the pendant I am thus able to carry a bit of my mom with me wherever I go.
Since the gemstone on my necklace was not always a piece of jewelry, I did a bit of research on how Amethyst crystals are formed. Most of the Amethyst found today was formed between 130-150 million years ago from ancient lava fields. As the lava cools, several pockets are formed which trap gasses and water inside. Crystals are formed over time within these pockets. If Iron or Manganese is present during the crystal formation, the clear quartz crystals will turn purple–thus creating Amethyst crystals. To transform the stone into a piece of jewelry, the stone is generally cleaned with soap and water, ground and shaped with a Dremel tool, sanded, polished, and then wrapped with wire.
I’m not religious, but I am a very spiritual person–so certain “metaphysical” objects, like crystals, are deeply important to me. I have a small collection of crystals that I keep by my bedside–all with different meanings and purposes–but the Amethyst is the only one I wear on my body. The crystal is generally associated with physical and mental healing, protection, and stimulation and soothing of the emotions. Amethyst has served several purposes throughout history. It was worn by travelers as protection from treachery and surprise attacks, kept soldiers from harm and granted them victory over their enemies, lent assistance to hunters, and was considered a powerful psychic stone of protection against evil forces. It was also believed to protect its wearer from disease and contagion. In the spiritual world, Amethyst provided a connection to a greater being. To the Hebrews, it served as the ninth stone in the breastplate of the High Priest, as well as the twelfth foundation stone for the New Jerusalem. To the Egyptians, it was listed in the Book of the Dead to be carved into heart-shaped amulets for burial. In Eastern cultures, it was used in temple offerings for worship, and to align planetary and astrological influences. It was popular in rosaries and prayer beads, credited with creating a calm, meditative atmosphere.
It may be a classic case of confirmation bias, but when I wear my amethyst pendant I really do feel calmer, more focused, and generally more in tune with myself and the world around me. It’s become a prized object of mine, and one that I feel deeply connected with. I once left my coin purse, which was carrying the pendant, on a Trailways bus and assumed I would never see it again. Three months later, I received a call out of the blue from the bus station in town saying they had found the purse. I like to think the pendant found its way back to me. Since that day, I’ve taken special care of the necklace and hope–regardless of the validity of crystal lure–that it’s doing the same for me.
The Materials of History, Thought, and Art 
I never knew much about crystal pendants except that they seemed to be part of a new fashion trend. After reading your blog and the website I think the meanings behind them are beautiful. Theres so many interpretations to connect with and serve as reminders as you wear it. Also, we never think about the chain the necklace holds and no one usually notices it however, using your moms you know she is always with you regardless of what anyone else sees. Thats amazing you found it after that long of time. I hope you never have to go through that again.
I love that you have a connection not only to the pendant, but also to the chain. I feel as though it brings more meaning to the necklace as a whole, combining it’s spiritual and familial value. I think it’s beautiful that you know the complete meaning of the crystal you keep around your neck. The personal story behind it of being lost and coming back to you is really interesting, especially after three whole months. I believe that necklaces can be very special objects, they sit so close to our hearts and can hold so much value for such small objects.
It was really interesting to read about the history of amethysts. Most of my knowledge of crystals consists of the healing properties they posses, and not so much where they came from or why they have those healing properties. Using crystals as a method of healing has always made me a little skeptical, but recently someone gave me yellow quartz and said “I feel like you need this,” so I’m open to learning more about it.