Amethysts have bee treasured since the time of the ancient Greeks. In fact, the origin of this purple gemstone’s name is quite intriguing. The name amethyst is derived from the Greek word, “amethystos,” which translated means “remedy against drunkenness.” The Greeks associated this gorgeous purple gemstone with the wind god, Bacchus, because of its grape-like color. They believed that wearing an amethyst could protect you from drunkenness, keeping the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. Wine goblets were made from or decorated with amethyst to ward off the effects of their indulgence. But the Greeks weren’t the only ones to cherish this glittering gem.

Purple has always been considered a regal color, and because of this, amethysts have been seen in religious and royal jewelry. Buddhists believed amethyst powers helped to enhance meditation and used them to make prayer beads. Throughout the ages, powerful and rich monarchs used amethyst as a symbol of royalty. Amethyst was a personal favorite of Queen Catherine the Great of Russia.

Today, some amethysts even decorate the British Crown Jewels. Until the 19^th century, amethyst was considered a precious gemstone alongside diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. However, a large deposit of amethyst was found in Brazil, lowering the gemstone’s financial value because of increased supply. Although amethyst is now considered a semi-precious gemstone, the discovery of Brazilian gems has allowed for large amethysts to be used more frequently in jewelry.