Myths About Gemstones
Myths About Gemstones
ANCIENT MYTHS
Crystals, minerals and metals have played various roles in the myths and legends of human cultures throughout history. They are fascinating examples of the attempts of the men and women of ancient times to explain their world without the benefit of science and with each culture’s biases, superstitions and interests impressed upon them and therefore provide us with an especially vivid picture of the psychology of ancient man. What gemstone could make heroes stronger? Legends of Jewels, Quartz Mythology, Myths about crystals and myths about jewelry; Some of those ancient myths and legends have come down intact through the centuries. Others have evolved and mutated as result of the input of other culture as they came into contact with one another.
AMETHYST
The most popular mythology surrounding amethyst is from ancient Greece. The word “amethyst” is of Greek origin and is translated as- “amethystus” meaning not drunken, or intoxicated (“-methystos” from “methyein” or intoxicated, “methy” = wine). As a symbol of sincerity and stability, the unique purple shades of amethyst have been declared the “Rose de France” and has been set, even today, in Victorian jewelry (rings, bracelets, necklaces, hair accessories etc.). The mythology of this stone, unsurprisingly, spreads through modern mythology and even ancient and recent legend.
AQUAMARINE
According to some legends, aquamarine is the treasure of mermaids, with the power to keep sailors safe. Supposedly its’ powers are particularly strong when immersed in water. While on land, it is said to have a soothing influence on married couples. The ancient Romans believed that the Aquamarine was sacred to Neptune, the god of the sea, having fallen from the jewel boxes of sirens and washed onto shore. Early sailors wore aquamarine talismans, engraved with the likeness of Neptune, as protection against dangers at sea.
DIAMONDS
The ancient Greeks and Romans believed they were tears of the Gods and splinters from falling stars. Cupids’ arrows were supposed to be tipped with diamonds, having thus a magic that nothing else can equal. Plato wrote about diamonds as living beings, embodying celestial spirits. The Hindus believed that they were created when bolts of lightning struck rocks. They even placed some in the eyes of some of their statues. Jewish high priests turned to diamonds to decide the innocence or guilt of the accused: a stone held before a guilty person was supposed to dull and darken, while when held before an innocent one to glow with increased brilliance The Romans wore diamonds because these were thought to possess broad magical powers over life s troubles, being able in particular to give to the wearer strength, invincibility, bravery, and courage during battle. Kings, in old days, led the battles on the battlefields wearing heavy leather breastplates studded with diamonds and other precious stones because it was believed that diamonds possessed God given magical qualities and powers far beyond the understanding of common man. Thus, warriors stayed clear of Kings and those who were fortunate enough to have the magical diamonds in their breastplates.
EMERALD
The Romans believed that emeralds with a pale hue were immature and would grow to a deeper, richer colour with age. The ancient Roman scholar Pliny was so moved by the emerald’s lush colour he wrote, nothing is more intense than the green of emerald and sight is refreshed and restored by gazing upon this stone . Following his advise, Roman emperor Nero wore emerald sunglasses to watch the gladiators. Emerald is said to give a supernatural ability to foretell future events. A surprising variety of virtues have been ascribed to emerald. Among these, emerald was thought to improve its owner s memory and eloquence, and was also said to quicken intelligence. In a particular instance of emerald s use, as a measure against ills, women wearing the stone were believed to be immune from epilepsy.
GARNET
The pomegranate (and garnet) is associated with eternity in many Greek Myths. Many have associated the gift of the pomegranate seeds with the gift of fine garnet gems. It’s meaning has given symbolism to garnet as a gift of love’s attraction, a gift of quick return or as a gift of estranged love. This myth gave partial rise to the belief that garnet is a stone for loved ones who travel and a crystal that can heal the broken bonds between lovers.
OPAL
In ancient times, opal had been regarded as the luckiest and most magical of all the gem’s because of its’ ability to showcase a multitude of colours. The Greeks of old believed the stone to give it’s bearer the powers of foresight and prophecy. The Arabs of Mohammed’s time were quite enamored of the gem, and were convinced they were carried to earth on bolts of lightning.
One myth (probably of Greek origin) tells