“The February born shall find,  

Sincerity and peace of mind, 

Freedom from passion and from care, 

If they an amethyst will wear.” 

(Gregorian birthstone poem)  

Immediately distinguished from other gems, amethyst comes in a variety of vibrant purple hues from light to dark. Once as expensive as rubies, sapphires and emeralds, that all changed in the 19th century when large deposits were found in Brazil.  Prior to that discovery, amethyst was an extremely precious stone with a color symbolic worldwide of beauty, royalty and nobility, wealth, wisdom and creativity. What a combination!    

Amethyst has a rich global history. Early Greeks associated the stone with Bacchus, the god of wine, due to its deep grape-like color. The word amethyst is derived from the Greek “amethystos” meaning “remedy for drunkenness.”  Legends claimed the stone kept the wearer clear of mind and sharp in battle and business. According to Aristotle, it was also the name of a beautiful nymph who invoked the aid of the goddess Diana to protect her from Bacchus. Diana morphed her into a precious gem and Bacchus, in remembrance of his love, gave the stone its gorgeous color and the quality to preserve those who wore it from the noxious influence of wine. Maybe that means you can have another glass after all! Hmmm….   

Egyptians and Romans used the stone as talismans of protection, calm and favor. It was the stone of St. Valentine who is said to have always worn it.  Given its rich lore, fine amethysts have been set in crown jewels and adorned the fingers of royalty. Its use in Episcopal rings have accorded it the title of “the Bishop’s Stone.”    

How lucky for us that this gorgeous stone with a history as rich and colorful as itself can be worn today affordably for many of us. February babies claim this as their birthstone, but June babies may lay claim to the lighter colors of Amethyst as an alternative to the much more expensive and rare Alexandrite.   

Whether you’re shopping for yourself, a loved one or a gal pal, you can find something for every amethyst lover in my shop. Take a look around and find something you just can’t live without! For the latest updates, photographic inspirations and promotions, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram.