FEBRUARY: AMETHYST is especially rich in legends. For thousands of years, amethyst has symbolized protection and peace. A dream of amethyst signified the dreamer was safe from harm.   The Greek myth of the creation of amethyst tells that when Bacchus, the god of wine, was angered by  Diana, goddess of the hunt, he vowed to set a hoard of hungry tigers upon the first person to cross his path. This happened to be the beautiful maiden "Amethyst" on her way to worship Diana. When she called to Diana to protect her from the tigers, Diana, who was powerless to stop the tigers, turned Amethyst into a statue of white stone. Regretting his deed, Bacchus poured a cup of red wine over the stone maiden, giving A\amethyst its vibrant violet color. Bacchus then promised that whoever drank from an amethyst chalice would not become inebriated (Tell that to the Cops). The Greek word “amethustos” means “not drunk."   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. The amethyst ring worn by St. Valentine was engraved with Cupid.

Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British Crown Jewels.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and comes in pale lilac to rich, deep purple shades. Ideally, it is a deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes that give amethyst its beauty and fire. Because of its abundance, it is readily available in all sizes and shapes. It is durable and can be worn every day.

It is found mainly in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia

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