Amethyst
Amethyst derives its name from the Greek word amethustos which means "not to intoxicate". Amethyst, according to legend, originated when Bacchus, the god of wine, grew angry at mortals. He vowed the next mortal that crossed his path would be eaten by tigers. At that time, a beautiful young maiden name Amethyst was on her way to worship the goddess Diana. Diana, knowing of Bacchus' vow, turned Amethyst into a pillar of colorless quartz to protect her from the tigers. Bacchus, witnessing the miracle, repented and poured wine over Amethyst, staining her purple. This connection with Bacchus led to the belief that drinking wine from an Amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness.

One of the first gemstones used by man, amethyst gave rise to many legends. It was believed to posses the ower to safeguard soldiers in battle, control evil thoughts, help hunters capture wild beasts and make its owner shrewd in business matters.

Very dark stones are sometimes heated to lighten and intensify color.

This lovely member of the quartz family is the birthstone of February and is designated for the first wedding anniversary.

Sources: Brazil, Uruguay, Russia, Bolivia, Mexico, Tanzania, and the U.S.

Other colored stones: