- Amethyst is the purple variety of the mineral quartz and comes from African and South American mines
- The word “Amethyst” comes from the Greek word “amethystos”, which roughly translates to "not drunken"
- Amethyst’s purple color can range from a light lilac to a deep, intense royal purple
- Amethyst was as expensive as ruby and emerald until the 19th Century when Brazil’s large deposits were discovered. Today, amethyst is in demand for birthstone and designer fine jewelry
- Fine amethysts have been set in religious jewelry and royal crown jewels for ages and have adorned the fingers of bishops as well as the coronation regalia of British royalty
- The astrologer Camillo Leonardi wrote that amethyst quickens intelligence and gets rid of evil thoughts. St. Valentine, the patron of romantic love wore an amethyst ring carved with the image of Cupid
- Historically, amethyst was referred to as the “Stone of the Mind” because people believed that it had the ability to calm your mind and ease your emotions
- The people of Ancient Greece believed amethyst had properties that made them a great antidote for drunkenness. Back in the Ancient Roman times, you would see amethysts embedded into goblets because its supposed ability to ward off drunkenness
- Metaphysically speaking, some people believe the benefits of amethysts include relaxing the mind, enhancing mental activity, and giving strength and willpower for pursuing passions and resisting undesirable habits
- Because of its wine-like color, early Greek legends associated amethyst with Bacchus, the god of wine. Other legends reflected beliefs that amethyst kept its wearer clear-headed and quick-witted in battle and in business affairs
- Your birthstone is personal and affordable to collect. Birthstone jewelry creates a cherished gifting experience
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