Probably the most recognized variety of Quartz, Amethyst has long been loved for its wide range of purple hues. Lore says that the maiden Amethyst was turned into crystal to protect her from Bacchus' tiger. The Greek god of wine was so contrite that he wept tears of wine over her frozen form, giving Amethyst its lovely color.

Amethyst derives its name from the Greek word "amethystos" meaning "not to intoxicate." The ancients believed that it had the power to prevent drunkenness and consequently, they did their drinking from carved amethyst mugs. In fact, the clergy of the Roman Catholic Church still wear amethyst rings to protect themselves from intoxication when drinking the Communion wine. In addition, few people today realize that the ancients not only believed amethyst had a sobering effect on intoxicants, but that it would quiet the overpowering excitement of love passions. It is also very possible that amethyst derived its supposed virtue of preventing drunkenness from the fact that if a liquid is poured into a vessel made of amethyst, the liquid would appear like wine and would therefore be consumed with no intoxicating effects.

Roman women believed the purple gem would keep their husbands faithful. Strangely enough, many men believed just the opposite: that an amethyst would attract beautiful women to them. Kings and queens considered amethyst a perfect compliment to their royal robes, and eventually the gem came to symbolize royalty. Amethyst can be found in the Crown Jewels of many countries. Amethyst adds rich color to any piece of jewelry. It is glorious when offset with gold and can be further enhanced by the company of pearls or diamonds. Its setting and the company it keeps can make it anything from simple to sophisticated to extravagant.

Suggested as a gift for a sixth wedding anniversary, Amethyst is the February birthstone.