Birthstone
Color: Purple
If gazing into the sparkling purple
depths of an Amethyst suffuses you with a sense of powerful well being, this is
only to be expected. The ancient Greeks believed that this gemstone held
many powers, among them protection against intoxication. In fact, the
word Amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning
sober. In ancient Greece, the gemstone was associated with the god
of wine, and it was common practice to serve this beverage from Amethyst
goblets in the belief that this would prevent overindulgence. Even today,
Amethyst is considered a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome
addictive
behaviors.
February's purple birthstone has
been found among the possessions of royalty throughout the ages. The intense
violet hue of Amethyst appealed to early monarchs, perhaps because they often
wore this color. Purple dye was scarce and expensive at one time, and so it was
reserved for the garments of kings and queens. Amethyst has been found in ruins
dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning crowns, scepters, jewelry,
and breastplates worn into battle. A large Amethyst is among the
closely guarded gemstones in the British Crown Jewels.
Amethyst is also symbolic of
spirituality and piety. It has been used to ornament churches and crosses
used in religious ceremony, and worn in rings and on rosaries by bishops and
priests.
Once considered more valuable than
diamonds, Amethyst is a member of the quartz family, occurring naturally as
crystals within rocks. Deposits of this gemstone are found in
Brazil, Canada, Australia, India, Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, Sri Lanka; and
in the United States.
The gift of Amethyst is
symbolic of protection and the power to overcome difficulty. It is said
to strengthen the bond in a love relationship, so it is an ideal anniversary or
engagement gem. Whether or not Amethyst holds such power, it's stunning
beauty will certainly make
anyone who wears it feel like royalty!
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