Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and has been a valued gem across centuries. It was once considered equal in value to Sapphire, Ruby, and Emerald. Fine Amethysts were set in jewelry and royal crown jewels.
Ancient civilizations valued Amethyst for its beauty and believed it had healing properties.
A Gem of Royalty and Reverence
Centuries ago, amethyst stood alongside sapphire, ruby, and emerald as one of the “cardinal gems,” prized for its rich color and rarity . Nobles, clergy, and royals adorned themselves with deep purple stones, certain that amethyst carried virtues of sobriety, wisdom, and calm.
Roots in Myth and Medicine
The name amethyst comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated”—reflecting the widespread belief that the stone could ward off drunkenness. Ancient Greeks even carved drinking vessels from it in hopes of finding restraint in revelry
Beyond preventing inebriation, medieval lapidaries credited amethyst with calming the mind, guarding against evil thoughts, and promoting physical and mental equilibrium. Wearers might keep it close to the skin, set it in a ring or talisman, or grind it into powders for medicinal mixes
The Fall of Rarity
Before the 1700s, amethyst’s appeal matched that of rubies and emeralds. Yet when massive deposits emerged in Brazil (and later Zambia and Uruguay), supply soared and its market price fell. Today, it’s regarded as a semiprecious gem—but premium specimens, especially “Deep Siberian” or “Rose de France”, still command collector admiration
Its Beauty and Origins
Amethyst’s allure lies in its vivid range of purples—from pale lilac to a regal violet, often with flashes of red or blue in sunlight. The most treasured hues come from sunlight-irradiated iron within the quartz structure, and top-quality material has traditionally come from Siberia, Brazil, Uruguay, and parts of Africa
With a Mohs hardness of 7, it’s durable enough for everyday wear, perfect for rings, earrings, pendants, and more
Modern Meaning and Metaphysical Appeal
Today, amethyst remains the birthstone of February, and is widely embraced for its calming and spiritual properties. Enthusiasts say it fosters emotional clarity, peaceful sleep, and deeper meditation. It’s also associated with the third-eye chakra, aiding intuition and inner peace
Why We Still Cherish It
- A royal past: once ranked with the rarest and most prized gems
- Striking visuals: a spectrum of purples that captivates and suits many styles
- Durability: quartz is robust—ideal for everyday jewelry
- Rich lore: myths, myths of sobriety, healing folklore, spiritual traditions
- Accessible beauty: fine-quality stones available at reasonable prices
Find Beautiful Gems at the Denver Gem Show
Amethyst’s legacy is one of transformation—from a gem of kings to a beloved, accessible treasure. Its royal purple, ancient symbolism, and modern spiritual resonance make it a fascinating gemstone that bridges past and present. Whether set in an heirloom ring or held during meditation, amethyst continues to enchant both the eye and the soul.
Explore a variety of Amethyst and other precious stones at the Denver Gem Show. Crystal collectors of all types from experts to beginners will come together at the National Western Complex from September 5 – 14, 2025 to share their love for the natural world. Don’t miss this free event!
