Amethyst: The Gem of Royalty

It is the birthstone for February and the traditional gift for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries. 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, its stunning beauty will certainly make anyone who wears it feel like royalty!

Throughout time the amethyst has been found among the possessions of royalty. The intense violet hue appealed to early monarchs, perhaps because this was a popular garment color. Back in the day, purple dye was scarce and expensive, so it was reserved for the kings and queens. A large amethyst is among the closely guarded gemstones in the British Crown Jewels.

AMETHYST FACTS

Amethyst’s majestic hue of purple ranges from very light to very dark; The finest quality amethyst exhibits a high degree of transparency and a deep purple color enhanced by flashes of burgundy or rose.

Amethyst has captivated humankind for centuries. The lilac to deep purple hues were once reserved for royalty or religious figures who wore it as a symbol of their important stature in society. Its lore comprises several claims to mystical powers, including that it would convey strength and wit to those who wore it. Amethyst was also associated with Bacchus, the ancient Greek god of wine, and wearing it was thought o keep the drinker sober.

Amethyst belongs to the quartz species and is related to rock crystal, citrine, and chalcedony.