Amethyst | Purple

Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz. The name comes from the Ancient Greek a- ("not") and methustos ("intoxicated"), a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness; the ancient Greeks and Romans wore amethyst and made drinking vessels of it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication.

If gazing into the sparkling purple depths of an Amethyst suffuses you with a sense of powerful well being, this is only to be expected. The ancient Greeks believed that this gemstone held many powers, among them protection against intoxication. In fact, the word Amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning sober. In ancient Greece, the gemstone was associated with the god of wine, and it was common practice to serve this beverage from Amethyst goblets in the belief that this would prevent overindulgence. Even today, Amethyst is considered a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors.

The gift of Amethyst is symbolic of protection and the power to overcome difficulty. It is said to strengthen the bond in a love relationship, so it is an ideal anniversary or engagement gem. Whether or not Amethyst holds such power, it's stunning beauty will certainly make anyone who wears it feel like royalty!

The February born shall find
Sincerity and peace of mind,
Freedom from passion and from care,
If they, the amethyst will wear.
Gregorian Birthstone Poems

Get your Birthstone bead! A birthstone (or birthday stone) is a gift of a precious material, that symbolizes the month of birth:

January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Why wear Birthstones? European tradition suggests everyone should always wear their birthstone. For the fullest effect, individuals needed to own an entire set of twelve gemstones and rotate them monthly.