FEBRUARY BIRTHSTONE – AMETHYST

Amethyst is the purple variety of Quartz and is primarily found in South America, Bolivia, Brazil, Africa & Arizona. The name “amethyst” comes from the Greek amethystos, which means “a remedy against drunkenness,” and was believed to protect the wearer from intoxication. Because of its wine-like color, early Greek mythology associated the gem with Bacchus, the god of wine.

Amethyst was also believed to keep the wearer clear headed and quick witted in battle and business affairs. Renaissance Europeans thought it calmed lovers overrun by passion.Some historical accounts say that Saint Valentine had an amethyst ring carved with an image of Cupid. For those familiar with Old Testament history, amethyst was one of the twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel. Amethyst is the gem traditionally given for the sixth wedding anniversary.