Amethyst is the recognized birthstone for February and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the sixth year of marriage. The transparent purple variety of quartz is one of the most popular of color gems. It was once believed to prevent the wearer from getting drunk, and if the circle of the sun or moon was engraved thereon, it was believed to prevent death from poison. Amethyst was said to have a sobering affect on the wearer-not only those who indulged, but on those over-excited by love's passion as well. The name Amethyst comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning not drunken. Amethyst is one of the best stones to use for relieving tension and developing patience due to its calming mental effect. Ancient traditions held that genuine Amethysts were ruled by Saturn and focused the planet's energy to protect travelers against danger, clear mental unrest, bring luck to gamblers and prevent intoxication.

      It has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility. Some say it will prevent baldness and improve the complexion, as well as protect from treason and deceit. Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British Crown Jewels.

     Available in shades from light to dark purple, it is relatively hard, fairly brilliant, and overall a good, versatile, wearable stone, available in good supply even in very large sizes (although large sizes with deep color are now becoming scarce). The deepest color, especially with flashes of red against a deep purple background, is referred to as Siberian. The term usually implies a color rather than a locality. Amethysts are sometimes heat treated to intensify the royal purple color (400C to 600C). Jewelers use care to protect Amethysts from excessive heat (i.e., resizing a ring). Amethyst is a durable stone and the color is permanent for all consumer uses. Most Amethysts exhibit zoning of color, especially in large darker stones.

      Amethyst is probably one of the most beautiful stones available at a moderate price, although one must be careful because "fine" amethyst is being produced synthetically today. It frequently exhibits color zoning (often looking like chevrons). Amethyst may fade from heat and strong sunshine.

     As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.