Fun Facts about Amethyst

Join Gem Expert and Rockhound Renata as she shares an interesting myth about February’s birthstone, amethyst.

Amethyst's name comes from the Greek language meaning "not drunk". Amethyst earned this name since ancient Greeks believed that it could stop the effects of alcohol and keep amethyst owners sober. Amethyst is also thought to have a sobering effect on, shall we say, overzealous passions; this may be one reason why Amethyst was used in the Episcopal rings of bishops. Amethyst has also been worn by Roman generals, Russian Empress Catherine the Great and even English royalty. So, it's not surprising that purple is often considered to be a color associated with royalty, as amethyst is famous for its precious purple color.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is colored by iron impurities that gives it the hue of deep purple to a lighter shade of purple. It also has a rating of seven on the Moh’s hardness scale, making it ideal for jewelry. Or if you prefer, Amethyst could make an ornate and great decoration on a wine glass. Cheers! 

After reading this, it's no wonder this “intoxicating” purple gemstone has been popular for centuries and continues to shine today!