Amethyst Gemstones

Amethyst is a striking violet to purple color stone. A common member of the quartz family is available in the range of pale lavender to a very deep, reddish purple. The purple color of amethyst has been endorsed by royalty since ages. The deeper the color of amethyst, the more valuable it is.

Amethyst gets its name from the Greek word "amethystos" meaning “not drunken”. Traditionally amethyst has been considered as the sobriety stone. In ancient times amethyst was believed to be a strong antidote against drunkenness and the wine goblets were often carved from amethyst crystal.

The story behind the origin of amethyst explains why amethyst was considered the sobriety stone. According to the story, Dionysus, the Greek God of intoxication, was insulted by an earthly being. Enraged, He swore revenge and decided to destroy the first earthly being that crossed his way. He created ferocious tigers to carry his wish. A young maiden, Amethystos, who was on her way to pay tribute to goddess Artemis, became the unsuspected victim. The Goddess transformed Amethystos into a crystal statue to protect her. When Dionysus learned this, he wept tears of wine on the pillar in remorse of the incident. The wine tears turned the crystal purple, and so amethyst was created.


In ancient Roman times, crushed amethyst was mixed in wine to prevent drunkenness. These gemstones are still believed to heal alcoholism, compulsive behaviors, and addictions of all kinds. It is also considered to bring mental and emotional peace in the wearer’s life. On the spiritual level, the amethyst brings chasteness and thus has been endorsed by the Catholic priests and clergymen. Even today, Bishops and other clergymen continue to wear amethyst rings. The rosaries of Tibet are fashioned with amethysts, as they were sacred to Buddha.

Amethyst is the birthstone for February and the astrological stone for the Pisces and Aquarius zodiac signs. Amethyst is the anniversary gemstone for the 6th and 17th year of marriage.

Most of the amethyst used in the jewelry industry comes from the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil. United States is also a big producer of amethyst along with Canada, India and Germany.

The purple color gemstone has a huge demand in the jewelry market, set in jewelries like rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets. Looks equally lustrous and appealing when set in 14k or 18k white gold, yellow gold, silver and platinum metals.