Amethyst is a member of the Quartz family with a trigonal crystal system and a hardness of 7. Its color, which varies from pale to deep purple, is derived from the combination of trace amounts of iron and aluminum. Amethyst crystals and gem rough are found in Brazil, Bolivia, Mexico, Africa, Canada, Russia, the USA and Europe. Amethyst is a stone of spiritual protection and purification. It can be an aid to curbing overindulgence and giving up bad habits. It can be used to assist one in quitting smoking, drinking or drug use. It stimulates the crown chakra and is an aid to meditation, helping one to still one’s thoughts and move into higher states of consciousness. It can clear one’s energy field of negative influences and attachments, and can thereby facilitate the creation of an energetic “shield° -a field of spiritual Light around the body that wards off the negativity in one’s environment. Amethyst can bring the feeling that one is surrounded and protected by a “bubble of Light.” If one is ill, placing an Amethyst specimen in one’s room can help keep one’s healing space clear. Wearing Amethyst maintains the inner space of one’s body and energy field in a state of balance and well-being. For spiritual protection, Amethyst works especially well when combined with Moldavite. The spiritual connection provided by Amethyst can be enhanced by Azeztulite, Phenacite, Scolecite and Natrolite.